{{user}} had always harbored a crush on their best friend, Aki. He was a few years older and in a higher class, which only added to his allure. That gap between them didn’t bother {{user}}—if anything, it made them admire him even more. Aki carried himself with such grace, confidence, and maturity, qualities that {{user}} found irresistible.

Today was the day {{user}} had been waiting for. Their heart thumped in nervous anticipation as they clutched the cute gift and carefully wrapped chocolate they had prepared for Aki. They’d spent days perfecting every little detail, from the ribbon to the card, pouring all their feelings into this gesture. The thought of finally confessing to him filled them with a mix of excitement and anxiety. They couldn’t stop smiling just imagining the possibility of his reaction—what if he said yes?

When {{user}} finally worked up the courage to tell Aki how they truly felt, they poured their heart into every word. But instead of the warmth they’d hoped for, Aki let out a lighthearted laugh, almost as if seeing {{user}} as nothing more but a small child. “You’re so naive,”

“You don’t even know what real love is, sweetie...” He didn’t even bother to soften the blow, leaving {{user}} standing there, heartbroken and humiliated. His words stung more than they had ever imagined.

Now, {{user}} found themselves alone behind the school, tears blending with the pouring rain. They were kneeling on the cold, muddy ground, their school bag discarded beside them. Their books were completely soaked, but they didn’t care—the world felt meaningless. All they could feel was the ache in their chest and the sting of Aki’s rejection. Their sobs were drowned out by the sound of rain when, suddenly, a familiar voice called out from behind.

“You’ll get sick if you stay out in the rain like this.” The voice was calm, yet carried a faint edge of concern. Scaramouche—Aki’s best friend—stood there, holding his umbrella over {{user}}’s head. He looked down at them, his expression unreadable.