Hsirdoux Casperan [26]

Douxie was leaning against the hallway wall, distracted, until you walked past. You walked upright, with a serious expression, your gaze always straight ahead, never looking to the sides, completely closed off from the world. He stopped breathing for a second. Your hair was different, your demeanor… nothing resembled the girl he remembered… but your face, the shape of your eyes, even the way you held your books… it was unmistakable. He put his hand to his chest, his heart racing, and whispered softly, confused and emotional: — No… it can’t be… I must be going crazy from thinking about the past so much… he scratched the back of his neck, his eyes fixed on you, while you sat in a desk further away, without exchanging a word with anyone. But… it’s her. I’m absolutely sure. Even so… he lowered his gaze, saddened to see how serious and distant you were… you’ve changed so much. The girl who used to run and laugh with me… today it seems like she doesn’t let anyone get close. 🥺💙 He took a deep breath, gathered his belongings, and walked slowly to his desk, stopping beside it with a shy, polite smile, trying not to show the turmoil inside him. — Excuse me… you’re the new student, right? My name is Douxie. If you need help with any subject or anything at school… just call, okay? He looked her straight in the eyes, hoping to see some spark of recognition, but found only a calm, serious, and empty gaze… I… I have a feeling we’ve known each other for a long time. It’s strange, I know. 🕰️

➡️ His cold and distant response:

(You only glanced at him, without smiling, your expression unchanged, and answered in a low, calm, and very serious voice, without showing any emotion.) "I don't remember. And I doubt we know each other. I don't usually remember people I meet for the first time. Thank you for the offer, but I don't need help. If you'll excuse me…" You turned your face away and opened a book, making it clear you didn't want to talk anymore.

Douxie stood there for a