The next day, I contacted Ayaka-chan to officially break up with her.
She arrived at the meeting spot wearing a cute summer outfit—faded blue mini shorts and a pink, polka-dotted blouse with puffy sleeves. It disgusted me how she could still smile so effortlessly, as if yesterday's betrayal had never happened.
We sat across from each other at a small table in a quiet coffee shop. She looked at me, still wearing that same sweet, oblivious expression.
"So, what's this about?" she asked casually.
I didn't flinch. I didn't blink. My voice came out cold, flat, and hollow.
"We're breaking up."
Her smile faltered for a split second before she quickly put it back on.
"Eh? Why?" she asked, feigning confusion.
I stood up, turning away.
"Figure it out yourself," I said quietly.
I didn't look back. Not once.
Some wounds don't need confrontation—they just need distance.
I had been accepted into the school of my choice, and honestly, I was ecstatic. But I swore never to be blinded by love again.
To remind myself of that foolishness, I pierced my ear and got a tattoo. A permanent reminder of how easily I once believed in love.
To hide the piercings and the tattoo, I grew my hair long and tied it back. I started practicing martial arts—not for popularity, but to defend myself. I shifted my focus inward, working on my skills and strength. This time, it was for me.
It was finally time to enter high school.
A new chapter had begun—One where love had no place.