The Diary of Shadows

Him

POV: Demian

As I always do, I wait for her in the coffee shop—my eyes locked on the door, knowing she'll walk in any minute.

But then, I see her—my Rose—the prettiest girl I've ever laid eyes on... walking with a guy. Something about it doesn't sit right with me. They're walking too... close.

I'm sure I'll remember the look on his face, but by tomorrow morning, he'll be gone.

As they keep walking, Rose spots me across the street. She waves, and then jogs over, looking as beautiful as ever. All I can think is: Put on a fake smile.

"Hi, bab," she greets me.

"How are you?" I ask, trying to sound casual.

"I'm fine. And you, my Rose?"

"I'm perfect. I want to introduce you to a friend. This is John. John, this is my lover, Demian."

John stammers awkwardly, "Oh... hi." Then, like he can't get away fast enough, he says, "Well, I should keep going. Bye..."

——When I saw her walking with that guy—John—something inside me snapped. My stomach turned. I told myself it didn't matter. I'm just another guy to her. She doesn't even know what I'm really capable of.

But seeing them together made me realize how far I'd gone. How much I cared. The way she smiled at him, the way she trusted him—it made me want to break something.

But instead of doing what I usually do—making it all go away—I just stood there. Watching.

I've never wanted to change for anyone before. But for her? I could. I would.——

I watch him go, but my attention is fully on Rose.

So... I have this pretty place we can hang out on New Year's," she says, with a smooth voice she added, "Just the two of us."

"That sounds great," I reply, my voice steady but my heart racing. It's not just the idea of being alone with her—it's something more. The thrill of having her all to myself.

"Let's go there and make our ten wishes." She looks at me, her sparkling eyes locking onto mine, and I can't help but feel the intensity of that gaze, like she's seeing right through me.

"It's a date." I wink, unable to hide the smile spreading across my face.

And in that moment, something shifts inside me. I'm not just excited—I'm genuinely happy. Happy in a way I never thought I'd feel again. The thought of spending New Year's with her, just the two of us, fills me with an overwhelming rush. It's like everything around me fades, and it's just Rose and me, making memories.

For the first time in a long time, I'm looking forward to something. Really looking forward to it. And I don't care who sees it—I'm going to be with her. And nothing's going to ruin that.