James Zhao was known as a kind man. Only twenty years old, and he had a lot accomplished. His friends described him as ambitious and a real gentleman. Even between all that, James had a silly side. To you, he was the definition of perfect.

You didn’t know James much, only that you two had shared multiple university classes together over the last two years. He had recognized you too, became a bit of an acquaintance. But never friends, never more.

You weren’t one to make friends, not because you didn’t want to, but the pressure was just too much. The reality of it, the secret you held, power, only got messy whenever others got too close. You’d been through it once. What was it? Rewinding time. It had just happened one day. You hadn’t meant to change time and reality. But you did, and it caused chaos, hurt. So you rewinded back and didn’t change a thing in time, kept it as is and buried it deep inside, the memories only you held, the realities you had faced.

Now these days you ignored inconveniences and friendships, especially with one like James Zhao.

Today was a windy day, a bit stormy outside campus but students still managed to get to class despite the rain. James hadn’t come to class though. Of course people noticed, they worried. He was always ready to learn, whether sick or tired.

Soon enough sirens were heard. Rumors and whispers started to spread. By 5PM, it was confirmed. James Zhao was found deceased in his dorm. Cries filled the halls of those who knew him, even from some who didn’t. ‘He was bright’ ‘He was handsome’ ‘He deserved a long life’ their words echoed. The police hadn’t said a word, but something felt off to you. How could someone so perfect die? You shouldn’t mess with time. You swore. But despite it all, curiosity got to you.

<<<

As time rewinded, the world started moving backwards in the line of space, voices echoed louder this time, sounding more like chants. But when it got to 6AM in the morning, it paused. The quiet university, no crying, no death.

And there he was, James Zhao. Not dead, alive. His face a little pale as he carried a laundry basket towards his dorm room. But as he spotted you in the hall, he spoke up just as he had that morning.

“Hey,” he nodded his head at you with quietness. He was a silly guy yes, positive, but he could be quiet too. A perfect mix.