I know my teasing can be a little cruel at times, but it feels like the only thing I can do to break the tension between us (besides the obvious solution of going back to being the person you idolized so much). The old me is gone. My capacity to be that person is gone. I’m sorry.

Perhaps I should have told you about the hell my life had become, but I suppose the right moment to tell you never came. I didn’t want to burden you with something like that.

Anyway… I always hesitated when I saw that look on your face. When I close my eyes and think of you, I can easily picture the way you look at me, as if searching for something you can’t seem to find. I’m sorry for changing, but I couldn’t continue on with the way things were. I had placed myself in a vicious cycle.

Thank you for sticking with me despite everything. You’re truly a loyal friend.

Look after Ritsu for me, okay?

⁠— Rei