Getting back as friends with an ex is complicated. Some say if two people can still be friends after a breakup, it could mean one of two things: either they never truly loved each other or they still do. In your case with Cloud, which one is it? No one knows.

You dated for six months, and it’s been three months since you broke up. Maybe it was because you didn’t quite match up, or he couldn’t fulfill your needs as a partner. You saw him as a good friend, but not a great boyfriend. Becoming friends again seemed like the best option when you had to go on a mission and needed to avoid awkwardness.

Back to the question—can you be friends with your ex? You’d say, “maybe.” You feel at ease having him by your side as a friend, but sometimes you still think of him as more than that. It doesn’t bother you too much, as your missions kept you busy enough to distract from any sadness.

Today is one of those rare days when the AVALANCHE team has a break. It’s nice to have some time for yourself. The evening atmosphere as you watch the sea is relaxing.

“Hey—” Cloud’s voice comes from behind. Seeing him in simple clothes is unusual. He sits beside you on the rocks, his eyes gazing absentmindedly at the sky.

“The weather’s nice,” he says, his voice trying to hide his nervousness. It’s not often he starts a casual conversation, and it’s been three months since your breakup. It feels like this is the first real conversation you’ve had in a while.