Lyra had just stepped out of the student council office when she saw someone standing by the stairs—someone she hadn't seen in months. Her steps slowed without thinking.
"…Suzie?"
The girl turned. Shoulder-length hair, same hesitant eyes. For a moment, neither of them said a word. The silence was new. It hadn't been there before—before everything went sideways at the end of last year.
"Hey," Suzie said, managing a smile like it cost her something. "Can we talk?"
Lyra didn't answer right away. Her gaze lingered on Suzie's face, like she was trying to figure out the reason behind this sudden hello. Eventually, she gave a small nod."Okay."
They headed toward a nearby bench, the kind half-hidden by trees. Campus was quiet this time of day—just a few students walking past, too busy to notice two ghosts trying to talk like nothing had happened.
Suzie was the first to speak. "How've you been?"
Her voice was softer than Lyra remembered. Uncertain.
"I'm fine. Classes are fine. Student Council's kind of a lot sometimes, but I'm managing," Lyra said with a light smile.
Suzie nodded, still looking at her. Like she was listening for something unsaid."You seem happy."
That caught Lyra off guard—but only for a second.
"I am," she said simply.
Suzie looked away. Her fingers curled slightly on her lap. "I heard you're… with someone now?"
The question came out light. Too light.
Lyra didn't blink. "Yeah. Robin."
His name came out easy, like it belonged in her mouth.
Suzie's jaw tightened just a little. She forced her hands to relax. "Robin. Right. Since when?"
"A few months ago."
Silence.
Suzie watched her carefully, trying to catch something—regret, hesitation, even the tiniest crack. But Lyra was steady. Like she'd made peace with the past and wasn't planning on looking back.
It stung more than Suzie wanted to admit.
Then Lyra asked, "How are things with Walter?"
Suzie's spine straightened. That came quicker than she expected.
"I don't know," she said, and her voice came out smaller than she liked.
Lyra didn't push. She just nodded, like that was enough."I hope everything's alright. Or, you know… gets there."
No follow-up. No extra questions. Nothing.And somehow, that hurt more than if she'd said something cruel.
Once, Lyra would've stayed. She would've asked more. Dug deeper. Sat there until Suzie was ready to say everything or nothing at all. Now? She just… let it sit.
Like Suzie didn't matter the same way anymore.Like she was just another part of Lyra's past.
Suzie's hands curled into fists again. Was this her fault? Or was it Robin?
Lyra had changed. And Suzie hated it.She wasn't ready to let go—not yet.
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Walter took a slow sip of his coffee while Suzie sat across from him, clearly impatient.
Moments like this had become rare between them—not because of schedules, but because something had settled between them. Something unspoken. Heavy.
"You've been busy lately," Suzie started, voice casual, but Walter could feel the tension underneath it.
He looked at her for a moment before nodding. "A bit. You too, right? Cheerleading, classes…"
Suzie folded her arms. "Yeah, but we're supposed to make time. I just feel like… something's different."
Walter didn't answer right away. He set his cup down slowly, then met her eyes."Different, huh?"
"Do you really think we're still the same as we used to be?" she asked, sharper now.
He exhaled. "I think… change is normal."
"What's that supposed to mean?" she snapped.
"I mean, look at us," Walter said, trying to offer a faint smile. "We used to do everything together. You, me, Arlo, Lyra… Now? We've all got our own lives."
Suzie's smile vanished the second that name left his lips. She looked away, scoffing."Oh, so we're going there again."
Walter frowned. "What do you mean?"
"I just think it's funny," Suzie muttered, laced with sarcasm. "Lyra used to be part of us. And now? She's off with someone else, like we never mattered. Even Arlo, who bailed for a while, still shows up sometimes."
Walter watched her, confused. "You mean Robin?"
"Who else?" Suzie rolled her eyes, stirring her spoon aimlessly. "Do you seriously think he's right for her?"
Walter paused. He could tell she was trying to bait him—but this time, he wasn't going to bite."I don't think it's really our place to say."
Suzie blinked, stunned. "Not our place? Lyra was our best friend, Walter! And now she's with him, and everything's different because of it!"
Walter let out a slow breath. "Suzie… have you ever thought maybe she didn't pull away—maybe we pushed her?"
She stiffened. "What?"
"We're the ones who messed things up," he said quietly now. "I've been thinking about it a lot. Back then… I was wrong. We shut her out. And Robin? He just said what no one else wanted to hear."
Suzie's face hardened. "So now you're defending him?"
"It's not about taking sides," Walter replied, eyes locked on hers. "It's about facing reality. Lyra's happy now. I just want to be happy too—with whatever path we're on."
"No," Suzie shook her head quickly. "There's no way you're actually okay with this. Don't you see? Lyra's with the wrong person."
Walter leaned back in his chair, suddenly exhausted. "And what makes you so sure Robin's the wrong one?"
"Because—" Suzie stopped.
She wanted to say it. That Robin didn't belong. That he stole Lyra.But the words felt hollow. Was it really about him?Or was it about the fact that she couldn't stand who Lyra had become without her?
Walter saw the flicker in her eyes. The hesitation. He could push the argument, but he knew it would go nowhere.
"Let it go, Suzie," he said finally, colder now. "What matters is where we are now."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"I'm tired of circling the same conversations," Walter said, more firmly. "I want to move forward. I want this relationship to work—but it feels like we're stuck. And I'm… just tired."
Suzie stared at him, something in her gut turning cold."What are you saying?"
Walter gripped his cup tighter."I think we should take a break."
And just like that, everything inside her froze.
"WHAT?!"
"I need space to think," he said, sincere but steady. "And I think… maybe you do too."
Suzie didn't move. Couldn't. She'd always been in control. Always known how to steer things her way. But now—Walter was the one stepping away?
"No," she whispered, barely audible. "You're not serious."
Walter looked at her gently, but his answer was clear."I am."
Her chest tightened, fists clenched in her lap, anger rising like a flood.
No. This wasn't happening. She couldn't lose Walter too.
"Why?" she demanded, her voice shaking.
Walter let out a quiet breath."Because I need time. And honestly? I think you do too."
And just like that, it was over. The conversation fell quiet, heavy with everything that had just been said.
Suzie sat frozen, watching the man she loved stand and walk away.
No. No way.
She drew in a shaky breath, trying to calm herself. But the more she thought about it, the more her anger swelled.
Walter had always come back. Even when they fought, he always stayed. He always softened. He always forgave.But now? He was the one walking?
This had to be Robin's fault.The boy who took Lyra away.The one who'd broken everything—even this.
If Lyra had never met him—if he hadn't pulled her away—everything would be like it used to be.They'd still be together.Still eating lunch as four.Still whole.
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Raindrops slid down the car windows, tracing slow, crooked lines against the glass. Outside, the world was cold and grey, but inside the car, everything felt warm—quiet, safe. Lyra and Robin sat in the front seats, engine still running, soft dashboard light casting a glow across their faces after a long drive from campus.
Robin leaned back against the seat, glancing at Lyra as she unbuckled her seatbelt. His tone was casual, but there was a mischievous glint in his eyes."So… are you planning another surprise like you did on my birthday for Valentine's?"
Lyra paused mid-motion, her brow raised as she turned to face him. "Was that a compliment? Or are you teasing me again?" she asked, lips slightly puckered in mock suspicion.
He smirked, leaning a little closer. "Definitely a compliment. I still remember how you went all out cooking for me."
"And nailed it," she added, proud.
Robin chuckled. "Oh, you did. It was amazing."
"Of course it was. I wouldn't serve a failed dish for my boyfriend's birthday."
He nodded. "And it's not just the birthday meals, either. Every time I drop by your place and you've cooked—even if it's just sandwiches or fried rice—it always hits."
Lyra looked away, a little flustered. "That's just basic stuff."
Robin's gaze softened. "Yeah, but it's made with love."
She blinked, caught off guard, then quickly turned her face toward the window to hide the blush creeping up her cheeks.
He laughed under his breath, watching her squirm. Then, with a teasing grin, he said,"How about we make this Valentine special by… sleeping together?"
Lyra whipped her head around, eyes wide. "ROBIN."
"What? I mean actually sleep. I've got so much work lately, if you gave me a whole day to just nap without interruption, that'd be the best gift ever."
"Idiot."
But Robin wasn't done. He leaned in again, this time closer. "Although, if you do want to get more romantic… we could find somewhere a little more private?"
Lyra felt the heat rise in her face. "Stop talking like that out in the open!" she hissed, glancing nervously out the window, even as her cheeks burned.
"What? I was just suggesting a quiet place for some quality time. You're the one taking it the wrong way."
"You made it sound sketchy," she shot back, shoving his shoulder lightly.
Robin tilted his head, grinning lazily. "Alright, alright. How about something simple but memorable? Romantic dinner?"
Lyra gave a slow nod. "That sounds nice… but I want to make it feel special. Maybe I'll try cooking again?"
Robin pretended to think. "Hmm… then I'd better prepare to be amazed all over again."
She narrowed her eyes. "Was that a compliment or another dig?"
"Definitely a compliment. I know whatever you make will be great. I'm honestly excited to see what you come up with."
"Hmph. Don't get your hopes up too high."
"Too high? Hey, you know I love anything you make, right? Whatever it is, I'm gonna enjoy it."
Lyra gave him a tiny smile, still pretending to sulk. "Don't say that. If I mess up, I'll feel terrible."
He looked at her for a second, then reached up and gently tilted her chin, stealing a quick kiss.
"Hey—!" she gasped, immediately darting her eyes around the parking lot.
He laughed. "What? You're used to this by now."
"We're outside! This is the apartment parking lot! People could see us!"
He shrugged, completely unbothered. "So? I just wanted to kiss my girlfriend."
Lyra let out a long sigh and covered her face with both hands, clearly embarrassed—but not actually upset. Robin, meanwhile, looked completely pleased with himself. He gently pulled one of her hands away and held it tight.
"Whatever you're planning for Valentine's," he said softly now, the teasing gone from his voice, "I know I'm going to love it. Because it's not about the plan. It's about being with you."
Lyra paused, then smiled faintly. "You're getting smooth, you know that?"
"I'm a comms major. Of course I know how to charm my girlfriend."
She rolled her eyes, but the corner of her mouth was already betraying her. "Alright then. I'll plan something. But you have to be patient."
He raised both hands like he was surrendering. "Of course. I'll wait for whatever surprise my amazing girlfriend's cooking up."
She gave him a side-eye. "I have a feeling you're gonna keep teasing me until the day comes."
A slow, guilty smile crept across his face. "Not true. I mean—maybe just a little."
Lyra sighed. "We'll see."
Robin just laughed, soaking in every second of the moment.Their first Valentine's was still a mystery, but sitting here with her—it already felt like more than enough.
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A quiet corner of the café was occupied by someone sipping their drink slowly, eyes fixed on a laptop screen. The place buzzed with conversation and clinking cups, but he didn't seem to mind. The noise faded into the background.
Until someone pulled out the chair across from him and sat down without asking.
"Hey, Nelson."
The voice was... vaguely familiar. Or maybe not.
Nelson looked up, mildly surprised to find someone smiling at him from across the table. They didn't usually talk—certainly not alone like this.
"Suzie, right?" he raised an eyebrow.
"Yep. That's me."
"And since when are we close enough for you to sit at my table uninvited?"
His tone was blunt, bordering on rude, but Suzie didn't flinch. Instead, she answered with a light shrug. "Sorry. I just saw you sitting alone and thought—why not talk for a bit?"
Nelson leaned back in his chair, slowly closing his laptop."Okay. So… talk about what?"
Suzie swirled her straw around in her drink, as if debating her words. Then. "Robin."
He looked at her. Neutral expression, but his eyes shifted just enough."Robin?" he repeated, quiet.
"Yeah." She nodded, flashing a small smile. "I'm just curious. What's he really like?"
Nelson let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head."Why the sudden curiosity? Don't tell me you've got a thing for him now."
Suzie gave a tiny laugh, not loud enough to be genuine. "Don't be ridiculous. I'm just… wondering what made Lyra choose him."
Nelson studied her more closely now. Eyes sharp.
Weird. Suzie and Lyra used to be tight—everyone knew that. But he also knew they weren't anymore. So why now? Why this sudden interest in Robin?
He decided to test her.
"So… bored of your boyfriend already?" he said casually, lifting his cup. "Moving on to your ex-best friend's, huh?"
Suzie flinched—just a little—but recovered quickly."Oh my god, no," she said with a soft laugh. "I just think… maybe I wasn't a great friend to Lyra before. And now, seeing her happy, I guess I'm curious. What kind of person makes her feel that way?"
Nelson didn't respond right away. He stirred his coffee slowly, the spoon clinking gently.
"I want to learn from Robin," Suzie went on, her voice soft—maybe even sincere. "Maybe if I understood him a little more, I could understand how to build a real relationship too."
He narrowed his eyes slightly. It sounded reasonable. But convincing him wasn't going to be that easy.
After a few seconds, he said, "Well, I don't know that much. Robin's a pretty average guy."
Suzie leaned in a little. "But he gets attention, right? I mean, he's not exactly talkative, but people still seem drawn to him."
Nelson shrugged. "Yeah, he doesn't try to stand out. But he's got his own kind of pull."
"Like what?"
He paused, thinking. Then. "He's loyal. Once he cares about someone, he sticks with them. No matter how bad things get."
Suzie fell silent for a beat. That word—loyal—hit something in her chest.Something she hadn't really noticed. Or maybe just didn't want to.
"But hey," Nelson added, setting his cup down, "if you're that curious, just ask Robin yourself. He knows himself better than I do."
Suzie let out a faint smile. "Like I'd even get the chance. He probably hates me. He'd throw a chair before saying hi."
"Hm… yeah, maybe," Nelson replied lazily. "He doesn't think much about the past. I guess he'd just say, 'What's the point?'" He shrugged. "Whenever he's in a mood, he just plays guitar."
"Guitar? That… kind of fits him." Suzie tilted her head. "I wonder if he plays for Lyra, too…"
Something about that made Nelson's gaze drop for a moment."I don't know. He used to hide when he played. Said he didn't want anyone to hear. Thought people would say it didn't match his look."
"Huh?" Suzie blinked. That caught her off guard. Robin—the smug, confident Robin—not confident enough to play guitar in public?
That didn't add up.
"Anyway, he's changed a lot. His style, his vibe… even his name," Nelson said, trying to recall. "What was it again… Dave?"
It was a throwaway line. A careless mention.
But to Suzie, it hit like a spark catching dry grass. She froze.
Her eyes widened. Her breath caught.
"…Forget it," Nelson muttered quickly. He winced, realizing he might've said too much. If Robin ever found out he slipped again, he'd be dead meat.
But it was too late.
Suzie had heard it.And something about it unsettled her deeply.
Why does that sound so familiar?
Why did that name echo like something she wasn't supposed to remember—but did?
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*** TO BE CONTINUE ***