The wind blew softly across the plaza.
A boy was kneeling.
His fists pressed hard against the ground.
— I… tried to tell you…
His voice faltered as tears began to form.
— I tried so many times…
Silence.
The boy raised his head, tears now running down his face.
— I'm a coward.
In front of him, Aoi remained seated.
Motionless.
— I caused all of this…
The words came out broken.
— I caused… your suffering, Aoi.
Her heart trembled.
But…
Not a single tear fell.
Aoi turned her face away.
Her eyes closed for a brief moment.
— I want to be alone.
That was the only thing she said.
The boy lowered his head once more.
— You have every right… to feel that way.
— I don't deserve… your forgiveness.
He slowly stood up.
And walked away.
The sound of his footsteps faded.
Aoi remained there.
Alone.
Feeling everything…
But unable to express it.