Chase Rivers.
A metallic ding echoed in my mind–the
<
system’s notification.
This wasn’t hard. Just a confession.
Afterward, I’d apologize sincerely for the
deception.
But when I looked up, the words I’d rehearsed
caught in my throat. I couldn’t speak.
He looked down at me. He wore thin–rimmed
gold glasses, a prominent nose, and a small
red birthmark below his right eye.
He was back. The person I’d waited for. This
was what a reunion felt like.
Panic, helplessness, a mind gone blank, stiff fingers.
The advisor, curious, leaned in. “Ethan, are you alright?”
Other students stared. I must have looked strange.
L
Tears welled up.
“I missed you so much,” I whispered.
Chase reached out, gently cupping the back
of my head, pulling me closer, holding me.
“I’m sorry I’m late,” he said, his voice as soft
and low as ever. “Ethan, do you still like me?”
My voice was muffled against his chest.
“What do you think?” I mumbled. “Whether
you’re Chase Rivers or Kai… feelings don’t
change that easily.”
The system’s final message echoed in my mind.
“Congratulations, host, on completing the
cannon fodder female supporting character’s mission.”
“Wishing you a lifetime of happiness with
your loved one.”
<
8
