oneshot | boynextdoor

closure // m. jaehyun

We fell deeply in love, feeling as though the world belonged to us during our moments together. Our love was sweeter than sugar itself.

But as our bond grew stronger, so did our jealousy towards others who came close to us. Arguments ensued, words were exchanged in anger and jealousy, words that we never truly meant. Despite our fights, we had a habit of apologizing before bedtime.

However, one fateful day, our egos prevailed. Neither of us apologized, and we went to sleep with hearts full of anger. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months. We started treating each other like strangers, a change so noticeable that even our friends commented on it.

The bitterness of our memories was more potent than any unsweetened coffee. But instead of regretting our love, I cherish it as a valuable lesson. We closed the chapter titled 'First Love' for both of us.

We had promised to grow old together, a promise we unintentionally broke. Yet, that promise was never empty; we just couldn't keep it.

Now, whenever I think of us, a smile forms on my face.

Fate brought us together again on a short trip with our friends, near the serene blue sea. We were tasked with grilling dinner, and as I was engrossed in my task, you came over to help, slicing the meat with me.

"It's been so long," Jaehyun said, focused on the meat.

"It has," I replied.

"How have you been?" he asked, giving his full attention.

"Good, as always," I answered, the silence that followed filled with unspoken memories.

"How about you?" I asked.

"How should I be?" he joked.

"Fine, I guess?"

He nodded slowly. Getting the hint that I was uninterested in having a conversation with him.

"Mine has been tough," he confessed.

"Well, good for you," I replied curtly.

The atmosphere grew heavy with unsaid words and unresolved feelings. I locked eyes with my friend, Haewon who is standing a few steps away from me.

She has a concerned look across her face.

"Look, I'm sorry for what I've done to you," Jaehyun said, his voice filled with regret.

"As you should," I replied coldly, breaking eye contact with Haewon and focusing on my task, still not turning to face him.

Jaehyun took a deep breath, his shoulders sagging. "I just wanted you to know that I regret it all," he continued, his voice barely above a whisper.

I remained silent, processing his words, but not willing to offer any comfort.

"I understand if you can't forgive me," he added, his voice breaking slightly.

I finally turned to look at him, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. For a moment, I saw the young man I had once loved, and it tugged at my heartstrings.

"I heard that you're getting married?" Jaehyun asked, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and sadness.

"Yes, I am," I replied calmly.

There was a long pause and he seemed to struggle with his next words, his eyes searching mine for some kind of reaction.

"I hope he makes you happy," he finally said, his voice barely audible.

"He does. Thank you," I responded, still keeping my emotions in check.

Another silence followed, even more awkward than before. "I guess this is goodbye then," Jaehyun said, his voice cracking slightly.

"I guess so," I agreed, finally meeting his eyes one last time. "Goodbye, Myung Jaehyun," I said softly, my voice filled with finality.

He nodded, understanding that this was my closure, my way of moving on.

"Goodbye..."