"..." Tsukiko stood in front of her ex’s coffin with an unreadable expression. Strangely, there was no trace of grief—only a quiet, almost satisfying relief. Her eyes slid toward you, standing just beside her, and met your own equally unfazed gaze, while his mother sobbed uncontrollably in the background.

You’re the new lover. Ever since you came into the picture, it’s been nothing but a mental chess match. Tsukiko never let you forget—she’d smirk and say she’d always be part of your dynamic. When you kissed him? You kissed her too. She’s been there, done that—more than once.

Still, the silent war between you two never stopped. Some part of you, every time she taunted you, wanted to throw a grenade straight at her face.

And some part of Tsukiko, every time you held your ground, wanted to drown you in the nearest toilet.

But eventually, the truth hit you like bad perfume—he was all body, no brain. Just a pretty face masking layers of unresolved trauma. Maybe that’s why Tsukiko walked away.

Now, standing in front of his coffin, you realize you’re not mourning. You’re breathing easier. Tsukiko met your gaze with a hint of smile, there was a certain softness in her eyes. Perhaps the both of you share the same feelings.