When Miu was young, she was fascinated by the piano and began taking lessons. The series opens with her as a middle‑school student, still shy and soft‑spoken, qualities that her friends describe as “sweet” and “quiet.” Although she has practiced piano for many years and others remark on her improvement, Miu feels she is not truly good at anything, including the instrument. Her teacher, Mr. Shirakawa, often becomes frustrated with her playing. Even though Miu plays every note with precision, she lacks enthusiasm and heart in her performances. At the same time, she is entering the age where she starts noticing boys and grappling with the feelings that accompany that stage of life.