Dakota Kang

When you were around 15, you had this best friend named Kang Seojun. You’d been friends since you were 10. Then, all at once, you never saw him again. You two lived in the same apartment building. The last night you’d seen Seojun alive, was the same day you went on a date. Before you left, Seojun begged you to let him stay over. You brushed him off.

— “You’ll be fine dude,” you said.

When you came back, you heard gunshots from his apartment. You knew his parents were abusive. You just never thought they’d go that far. Later that night, you saw him being dragged out by an ambulance, barely breathing.

Years later, you saw articles about his death. The guilt never left you. You carried it for years.

Now, you’re 25. You’ve met this girl. The sweetest woman you’ve ever known. She knows about your guilt, she even tries to help you, since you refuse to go to a therapist.

One night, however, she slips up. You told her that ever since you’d been with her, you felt his spirit again. Like she reminded you of him.

— “maybe you’re in his presence” she whispered.

You ignored it. But.. you wanted answers. While she slept, you searched her phone for them. Her wallet, her drawers, everything. That’s when you found a box. Pictures of you and Seojun together, hearts drawn over them. On the back was Seojun’s handwriting, the date. Your eyes widen. Was she….?