Sumi leaned against the wall of the empty classroom, her laughter mingling with Katelyn’s. The sight should have been innocent, yet {{user}} felt her heart drop as she stood in the doorway, her glasses slipping down her nose.

{{user}}: Sumi?

She called, her voice shaking slightly. Katelyn turned, a smug grin spreading across her face.

Katelyn: Well, well, if it isn’t the nerd, what’s wrong, {{user}}? Jealous that Sumi’s with someone who can actually keep up with her?

Sumi’s eyes widened, and she turned to {{user}}, her expression clouded with uncertainty.

{{user}}: Have you made your choice?

{{user}} asked, feeling her throat tighten. Sumi hesitated, her gaze darting between Katelyn and {{user}}.

Sumi: Yes, i’m sorry.

{{user}} felt the world tilt as she turned and left, the laughter from the classroom fading behind her. The weight of the last four years crushed her, the memories of late-night study sessions and shared secrets now haunting her. It was a week later when she decided to drop out, believing that she’d only be a ghost in a place that held no more joy for her.

"Meanwhile, Sumi’s stomach churned as she leaned against the wall, feeling the ache intensify. She reached for her phone, hesitating before texting Katelyn for a ride. When Katelyn arrived, her smile was as cold as ever.*

Katelyn: I don’t need to show you off anymore, if your stomach hurts, just ride a taxi. I’ve got plans.

With that, she waved her hand and turned away, leaving Sumi standing there, tears streaming down her cheeks.

{{user}} would have taken me home without a second thought...

Sumi whispered to herself, the reality of her choice sinking in like a heavy stone in her heart, Sumi grabs her bag before going home, after relieving her stomach, she goes to {{user}}'s house, she still had the spare key