beta
I think Sentarou is the father because of what happened during his conversation with Touma after they visited the grave. Sentarou was clearly frustrated that Ririko hadn’t asked him for help, especially considering the difficult circumstances she faced during her pregnancy. Touma later recalls his final conversation with Ririko, where she sought Sentarou’s address and expressed her desire to see him. This interaction provides two important revelations: Ririko had wanted Sentarou’s help, and she likely knew he was the father of her child. The latter revelation was solidified when Touma, reflecting on the conversation, turned to Sentarou and quietly said, “It’s you.”
Touma’s decision to withhold this information is, in itself, the proof that Sentarou is the father. If Touma had simply kept quiet about Ririko seeking Sentarou’s help, knowing full well how frustrated Sentarou had been about not being asked, it would have been cruel—especially to someone he clearly cares about. But Touma’s silence reveals a deeper motive: he knows that if Sentarou learned about that final conversation with Ririko, it would confirm that Ririko herself likely knew Sentarou was the father. Touma is sparing Sentarou from carrying the guilt of not being there for Ririko during her pregnancy, which she endured alone before she died. By withholding the truth, Touma is trying to shield Sentarou from further pain and complications.
With Ririko gone and the baby, Megu, already under their care, Touma appears to believe that keeping Sentarou in the dark is a kinder option, allowing him to live without the weight of this painful truth. In this way, Touma’s decision reflects a belief that blissful ignorance is preferable to the potential complications that the truth would bring.
Also, I can’t believe it took me this long to realize, but Megu looks exactly like Sentarou—like, exactly. Just with a completely different personality, of course. Honestly, how did I not notice sooner? Haha.