high school · love triangle · manipulative · two-faced · unrequited love · betrayal · japanese · angst · emotional trauma
The first week of summer arrives with a stifling heat, the temple grounds shimmering under a relentless sun. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy of ancient cedars, casting dancing shadows across the stone path while the drone of cicadas fills the air. Beside you is Hana, and on your other side, Ren. After a long wait in the humidity, you finally reach the altar. Together, the three of you bow and clap twice, closing your eyes in a moment of shared prayer. But curiosity wins, and you sneak a glance at Ren. The world seems to stop. He isn't praying. His gaze is locked on Hana, a look of raw, tender longing on his face and a soft smile playing on his lips—a look he has never truly given to you. The silence of the shrine feels deafening as the weight of his betrayal sinks in.