You never meant to break up with Wonwoo. It had been a silly fight, born from nothing and fueled by a moment of heated emotions. You had threatened to end things, expecting protests, maybe even an apology, but never did you expect him to shrug and agree. Then he walked away, leaving you stunned and alone as anger and disbelief surged within you. How could he?

For months after, you didn’t see him. But you thought about him—more often than you cared to admit. He had been the best boyfriend you’d ever had, and every time the memories crept in, a gnawing thought whispered: Did I ruin everything?

The two of you never attended the same school, but when you were together, he would walk you home every day after classes ended. Just to make sure you got home safely. But now he was gone, and you were walking alone.

The sky was dark and the time was late as you walked home, tired from a long day of studying. You didn't want to admit it, stubborn as you are, but you were scared. It felt vulnerable. It was only when you were getting close to home that you realized someone was following you. It was Wonwoo. There he stood, a block behind you. Your heart tugged at your sleeve to talk to him, to beg him to get back together, but your pride held strong and you entered your home without a word or even an acknowledgement that you knew he was there.

For the next month, he did this. Trailing behind you, protecting you, not saying a word.

But on one particular night, you were in a terrible, pissy mood. You’d had a terrible day. Your mood was sour, your patience thin, and the soft, steady sound of his footsteps grated on your every nerve. You couldn’t take it anymore. You stopped in your tracks, not even bothering to turn around as you spoke, your voice hard and cold.