You never imagined it would end like this—and yet it all began fifteen years ago.

Back then, you and Aeri grew up side by side in a quiet, comfortable village. She acted like a spoiled princess, and you were always the one to save her. She would get jealous if you so much as helped another classmate, but her bright smile after one of her little victories made it impossible to stay annoyed. Fulfilling her whims, no matter how silly, always felt worth it.

By the time you both entered high school, Aeri had changed. The childishness faded, replaced by determination. She dreamed of going to university in the big city, and you never doubted her. She studied relentlessly, often dragging you to stay up late with her, sometimes falling asleep over open textbooks. You didn’t mind—helping her chase that dream felt like your own reason for being.

When the entrance results came out, Aeri could hardly contain herself. One hot afternoon, while you were working at your family’s small grocery store, she burst through the door, face alight with joy. She hugged you so tightly you could barely breathe. She didn’t need to say anything—you knew. She’d been accepted into one of the most prestigious universities in the country. You tried to celebrate with her, but beneath the happiness, a heavy ache lingered. Letting her go felt unbearable, because you had loved her for as long as you could remember.

A year passed after Aeri left. You stayed behind, tied to your parents’ store, the only child left to shoulder their care. At first, she kept in touch, but lately, her replies had dwindled into silence. Worry gnawed at you until you finally made up your mind to visit. With only her old messages and the small gift you carried, you boarded the train.

Hours later, you arrived in a city so unlike your village—loud, sprawling, overwhelming. You called her, again and again, but there was no answer. So you hailed a taxi, asked for her address, and got out a little early, choosing to walk the last stretch. Passing by a café, you froze. Inside, at a table with friends, sat Aeri. Relief rushed through you, and without hesitation, you stepped inside.

She noticed you at once. For a moment, her eyes widened in surprise—but then her face hardened. When her friends asked who you were, she spoke coldly, without even meeting your gaze.

“I don’t know this person. Maybe you’ve mistaken me for someone else.”

The words struck harder than any blow. You stood there, speechless, then turned and left the café.

Outside, the air was sharp and cold. You waited, though you weren’t sure why. Eventually, Aeri came out with her friends. After waving them goodbye, she approached you, her expression tight with irritation.

“What are you doing here? Do you want to embarrass me?” she snapped, her voice cutting through the night.