RODRICK ONE SHOTS/IMAGINES

How things were. (Chapter 17)

(THE CHARACTERS ARE ALL AGED UP 21+)

The first hint of autumn had begun to settle over the town, casting a golden hue over everything. You walked down the familiar streets, feeling a pang of nostalgia with each step. The crisp air carried whispers of memories, reminders of a time when everything seemed simpler and more certain.

You paused in front of the old diner where you and Rodrick used to hang out. The neon sign flickered, and the place looked much the same as it had during those carefree days. You recalled the laughter and the late-night talks, the way Rodrick would always try to impress you with his music and rebellious charm.

Since the breakup, you'd tried to move on, to put the past behind you. But tonight, the memories were too strong, and the ache of what once was felt almost tangible. You reached into your bag, pulling out a crumpled photograph—one of you and Rodrick from a few summers ago. His mischievous grin and your beaming smile seemed to mock you now, reminding you of everything you missed.

It was a quiet evening, and you decided to sit on a bench nearby, the photograph clutched in your hands. You couldn't help but wonder what Rodrick was doing now. Had he moved on? Was he still playing in his band, dreaming big and chasing the thrill of youth? You hadn't seen or heard from him in months, and the silence between you felt like an unbridgeable chasm.

As you sat there lost in thought, the familiar sound of drums playing a hard, rock kinda tune drifted through the air. It was a song you remembered well, one that Rodrick used to play on his old drumset. Your heart skipped a beat. Could it really be him?

You followed the sound, your heart pounding in your chest, and soon found yourself standing in front of a small, dimly lit café where a live band was performing. The drums player had his back to you, but the beat and the way he played were unmistakably Rodrick's style.

You hesitated for a moment, then stepped inside, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. The café was cozy, filled with the soft murmur of conversations and the clinking of coffee cups. You scanned the room, and your eyes locked on the stage. There he was, Rodrick, sitting in the spotlight, lost in his music.

His short hair was messy, his focus intense as he played. You watched him for a while, mesmerized by how much he seemed to have changed and yet remained the same. His voice, rich and soulful, carried a sense of vulnerability that tugged at your heart.

After the performance, you lingered in the café, hoping for a chance to speak with him. Rodrick eventually made his way to the bar, grabbing a drink and chatting with a few old friends. You took a deep breath and approached him, feeling a mix of nervousness and resolve.

"Hey, Rodrick," you said softly, your voice trembling slightly.

He turned, his eyes widening in surprise. For a moment, he seemed at a loss for words. "Hey... you. I didn't expect to see you here."

There was a brief, awkward silence as you both tried to find the right words. Rodrick's expression softened, a mixture of nostalgia and regret in his eyes.

"I didn't mean to intrude," you said, holding up the photograph. "I just... I found this and couldn't help but think about how things used to be. I miss those times."

Rodrick took a deep breath, his gaze shifting between you and the photograph. "Yeah, I miss them too. Sometimes I think about what could have been if we'd made different choices."

The honesty in his voice made your heart ache. "I've been thinking the same thing. I know we can't go back, but I wish we could. I miss you, Rodrick."

He nodded slowly, his expression thoughtful. "I miss you too. It's strange how life changes so quickly. I guess we both had to learn that the past can't be reclaimed, no matter how much we wish it could be."

There was a sadness in his voice, but also a sense of acceptance. You nodded, tears welling up in your eyes. "I know. I just wanted to see you, to talk about... what was."

Rodrick reached out, gently taking your hand. "Y/N, I usually don't say this but I think its time." He glanced. "Time for what?" You asked completely clueless. "Time to let me go."

The air felt quiet for a moment. "Rodrick." "Y/N, things will never be the same. I've moved on, its time."

You couldn't deny his words but somehow you didn't wanna believe him. You pulled away and quickly left the café. You could feel the tears slowly building in your eyes so you ran faster, faster away from the chaos. You always ran from your problems that's the reason why Rodrick left, You always ran from yourself.

A/N

Hey guyss, so uhmm I know this one is kinda a sad chapter but I like writing sad things, it gives me a sense of nostalgia for some reason.. Anyways I'll probably write a happy one next week to comfort you guyss. 

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