Shadows in the Rain

Leaving

I went home late because Rain didn't want me to leave, so I stayed until she fell asleep. As I walked home, I saw Venom and June at a nearby cafe, seemingly on a date.

I approached them with a wry smile. "Mind if I crash your date?"

Venom raised an eyebrow. "What's with the long face, Yuan?"

"Rain confessed," I said, sinking into a chair opposite them.

June looked surprised. "And you?"

"I rejected her," I admitted, feeling the weight of my words.

Venom nodded knowingly. "Because of the guilt, right?"

June looked between us, confused. "But do you like her too?"

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Yeah, I do. But that doesn't change the fact that I'm not who she thinks I am."

Venom leaned forward, her eyes softening. "Yuan, you can't keep punishing yourself forever. People make mistakes. The important thing is what you do next."

June nodded. "And if you genuinely care about Rain, maybe it's time to be honest with her. She deserves to know the truth, even if it's hard."

I looked at both of them, appreciating their support but still feeling conflicted. "It's not that simple. I could ruin everything."

Venom reached out and placed a hand on mine. "Maybe. But hiding the truth won't help either. You need to give her a chance to decide for herself."

June chimed in, "And who knows? She might surprise you. People can be more understanding than you think."

I took a deep breath, feeling the tension in my chest. "I need to think about this. But thanks, both of you."

Venom smiled. "That's what friends are for. Now, let's enjoy this date-crasher before it gets too serious."

June laughed, and for a moment, I felt a glimmer of hope.

The next day was hard. I wanted to see Rain but also didn't. I was afraid the smiles I had brought to her face would vanish because of me. As I stared at my reflection in the mirror, lost in thought, Venom and June approached me.

Venom broke the silence first. "Yuan, what if you resign?"

I turned to look at them, confusion and concern etched on my face. "Resign? But what about Rain?"

June stepped forward, her expression earnest. "You said it yourself, Yuan. You're not a real psychologist. Maybe it's time to step back and let someone qualified take over."

"But she trusts me," I argued. "I've seen her progress. If I leave now, it might set her back."

Venom nodded. "That's true, but staying and continuing the lie might do more harm in the long run. You've built a connection with her, and that's important, but honesty is just as crucial."

June added, "Think about it, Yuan. If you resign and tell her the truth, it might be tough at first, but it could also pave the way for a more genuine relationship-if that's what you both want."

I sighed, feeling the weight of their words. "So, you're saying I should quit and come clean to Rain? Risk everything?"

Venom placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Yes, Yuan. It's a risk, but it's also a chance for redemption and real healing-for both of you."

June nodded in agreement. "It's not an easy choice, but it's the right one. And we'll be here to support you, no matter what."

I looked between them, feeling a mixture of fear and resolve. "Alright. I'll do it. I'll resign and tell Rain the truth."