I'm sorry...for everything

[4]

Three years later...

As Ray set foot in Bangkok after nearly three years, a surge of conflicting emotions washed over him. The familiarity of the bustling city was both liberating and daunting, filling him with a sense of freedom tempered by uncertainty. Three years had passed since he last walked these streets, and Ray couldn't help but wonder what changes awaited him. Cut off from the outside world during his absence, he had lost touch with his friends, including Sand, leaving him feeling isolated and disconnected from the life he once knew. Now, as he navigated the bustling streets of Bangkok, Ray couldn't shake the feeling of apprehension mingled with anticipation, unsure of what the future held in store for him.

Ray made his way to the 'Only Friends' hotel, a place imbued with memories both cherished and tarnished. It was a project born of friendship and camaraderie during their college years, but for Ray, it also represented the site of his greatest failure. As he approached the familiar building, a mix of emotions - but mostly uncertainty - swirled within him.

Entering the reception room, Ray was greeted by the familiar sight of sunlight streaming through the windows, casting a warm glow over the space. It felt like stepping back in time, the ambiance evoking memories of laughter and late-night conversations with friends. Yet, beneath the surface, there lingered a sense of regret and remorse for the havoc he had wrought.

Ray's purpose for returning to the hotel extended beyond seeking a place to rest; he was also driven by a desire to make amends. He hoped to apologize to his friends for the pain he had caused and the burdens he had imposed upon them. However, he harbored no illusions about the reception he might receive. Deep down, Ray knew that he didn't deserve their forgiveness or their warm welcome back into their lives. Nevertheless, he was determined to confront his past and seek redemption, no matter the outcome.

As Ray stepped into the lobby, his eyes immediately fell upon Mew, engrossed in his work behind the reception desk. However, before Ray could announce his presence, a sudden scream pierced the air, causing both Mew and Ray to whirl around in surprise.

"Ray!? You're finally back!!!" Cheum's voice rang out, filled with disbelief and excitement. Without hesitation, Cheum enveloped Ray in a tight embrace, catching him off guard.

The sensation of being held by his friend felt simultaneously familiar and strange. It was a stark reminder of how much had changed since their last encounter, particularly given that it was likely the first time they had embraced without the influence of alcohol. Yet, amidst the overwhelming rush of emotions, Ray couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in how far he had come on his journey of growth and self-discovery.

Mew's hesitant voice broke through the embrace, causing Ray and Cheum to turn towards him. Mew stood before them, his expression a whirlwind of emotions - disbelief, confusion, sadness, and a glimmer of excitement - etched across his face. Without hesitation, he stepped forward and enveloped both Ray and Cheum in a tight embrace.

"I'm so sorry, Ray," Mew cried out, his voice trembled with emotion as tears welled in his eyes. "I'm really sorry for everything, Ray. Please forgive me. I don't know how I can make things right again but-" His words faltered as tears choked his voice. "I missed you so much, Ray..." He whispered, his voice barely audible amidst his tears.

Ray, crying as well, reciprocated the hug, feeling his heart ache at the memory of their last encounter, far in the past. The memory of Mew's birthday, marred by Ray's drunken antics and resulting in a violent altercation, weighed heavily on his conscience.

"No, I should be the one apologizing, Mew," Ray said, gently pulling away from the embrace to meet Mew's gaze. "I've never properly apologized for ruining your birthday, and I'm truly sorry for that." Mew only managed to nod in understanding, his own emotions too overwhelming for words.