After the New Year, I noticed a change in Alison. She often seemed lost in thought, her vibrant spirit vanished. She resembled an elderly person nearing the end of their days, devoid of hope.

I was puzzled by her behavior. She refused to communicate with me, shutting me out.

Later, she took a two-week leave. Whenever I had time, I lingered downstairs at her apartment. Surely she would come out, and I would see her, right? I wasn’t sure. I didn’t even know what I was waiting for.

What if, simply, she didn’t want to see me?

While I was indecisive, I felt her gaze. I looked up, but instead...