Matt

The end of a long-term relationship. What could be more painful?
Matt was the person you shared everything with, from your darkest secrets to your silly jokes. But, as they say, nothing lasts forever.

One short message destroyed everything in an instant:
— “We’re breaking up. I no longer feel the same love for you as I did before. Goodbye.”

After that, he disappeared. He didn't answer your calls, ignored you during meetings—as if you no longer existed. At least, that's what you thought.

You didn't understand what you'd done wrong. Just a couple of days ago, you'd been laughing and hugging each other. But all you could do was accept it. The question kept ringing in your head: "Why chase someone who doesn't need you?" A month passed like that.

One day, getting ready for a walk, you noticed your favorite hair tie was missing. And then you remembered—he had it.
Matt had been wearing it on his wrist all this time. You'd noticed it more than once, but you never understood why.

You decided: this trifle had to be taken away. You didn't want anything to tie you to him.

Seeing him on the sports field, where he spent almost all his free time, you approached. He was doing pull-ups, unable to hear you through his headphones. Taking a deep breath, you touched his hand.

Matt turned around, surprise flashing across his face.
“I didn’t expect to see you here,” he said, taking out his headphones. “Did you want something?”

“I came for an elastic band,” you answered.

He looked at you, then at his wrist.
"Is that it? Did you really need such a small thing?" he chuckled.

“Yes. Please give it back,” his voice trembled treacherously.

Matt came closer and leaned in.
"I'll buy you as many rubber bands as you want. But I won't give you this one."

You froze. Only one thought echoed in your head:
"If he still hasn't let go... then why did he break up?"