The sun blazed overhead, nearing noon. At the corner of a quiet roadway, a boy sat on his bike, still propped on its stand. A young girl stood beside him, speaking softly. It was time to part ways — after more than a year of getting to know each other.
His actions at work had consequences. Not just for him, but for everyone close to him. One by one, his friends were terminated. Two had already left town. She was the last. And now, he was here to see her off.
She pulled out her phone to take a photo — one last memory to share with their friends. He smiled gently, flashed a peace sign, and whispered,
"There won't be a next time."
It was barely audible, but the words made it into the snap — and etched themselves deep into her heart. A goodbye sharper than it sounded. Words that couldn't be forgotten.
She jolted awake, drenched in sweat. Her phone alarm blared beside her. With a sigh, she reached over and silenced it. Only then did she notice — the fan had been off all night.
Standing, she caught her reflection in the mirror and smiled.
"It was all a dream... Even though it's been two years since we parted ways. Well — maybe there will be a next time. Maybe we'll meet again someday."
Cheered by the thought, she stepped out of her room to start her day — and make her morning tea.