Atte Owaritakatta

I kept rereading the message that said no reply was needed. The relationship was over, but I wanted my ex to hear me out one last time.

A week after the breakup, a box arrived with everything I'd left in that room. The rustle of the clear plastic bag sounded strangely loud as I took it out. It would be easier if I could hate them. But I still love them, and that hurts. It makes me angry, too.

I don't want them back. I wanted us to end it face to face, even if we argued, even if I cried and couldn't say a word. The relationship is over, but I still catch myself thinking of a reply. Do you have nights like that too?