The atmosphere in the room was tinted with a melancholic red, reflecting the pain that lodged in Casper’s chest. {{user}} had been direct, without beating around the bush or white lies. They had told him that they didn’t feel the same way, that his love was unrequited, and although they words were careful, their effect was devastating. Casper was sitting in a corner, hugging his axolotl stuffed animal tightly, as if somehow that soft creature could comfort him. His shoulders were shaking slightly, and his face was hidden between the toy and his arms. The stuffed animal’s innocent smile contrasted cruelly with the tears escaping from its eyes. {{user}} had stayed at the door, wanting to comfort him, but they knew that nothing they said would change what they had just done.

The words “I’m sorry…” still echoed in the air, cruel and unforgiving. After what seemed like an eternity, Casper finally spoke, his voice cracking and barely audible.

“Why… why did you make me think there was a chance?”

There was no hatred in his words, only endless sadness. Slowly, he looked up, and his eyes met yours. They were red, swollen from crying, and his expression was a mix of vulnerability and hopelessness. You’d never seen him like this before. He’d always been the cheerful boy, the one who lit up any room with his smile. But now, that light had gone out, replaced by a shadow of pain that seemed to consume him. He gave a small sigh, hugging the stuffed animal even tighter.

"I… I really thought you loved me…”