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Rain settled into the quiet of his secret home, the place he had built with Jason. He let out a long, shuddering breath, feeling the weight of his tears lifting just slightly as he embraced the solitude. This home was his sanctuary, a place where he could be himself without the judgment or expectations of others.
Over the next few days, Rain tried to find solace in the routine of his secluded retreat. He spent his mornings in the garden, tending to the plants that had been his and Jason’s project. The physical labor was therapeutic, and he found peace in the rhythm of his tasks.
One afternoon, Rain received a video call from Jason. As the screen lit up, he saw Jason’s familiar face, a smile on his lips.
“Hey, Rain. How’s it going?” Jason asked, his tone warm and reassuring.
Rain forced a smile. “Hey, Jason. It’s... it’s okay. I’ve been keeping busy.”
Jason’s eyes narrowed with concern. “You sure you’re doing alright? I know things have been rough with Phayu and everything.”
Rain sighed, feeling the weight of his emotions. “Yeah, it’s been tough. I thought I’d get away and clear my head. But I don’t know, Jason. I keep thinking about Phayu and Melanie, and it just hurts.”
Jason nodded, understandingly. “I get it. It’s hard to see someone you care about with someone else. But remember, you deserve to be happy too. And there are people out there who will appreciate you for who you are.”
Rain listened, grateful for Jason’s support. “Thanks, Jason. I’ve been thinking a lot about what you said. Maybe I should start focusing on what makes me happy.”
Jason’s expression softened. “That’s the right attitude. And hey, you never know—maybe this time away will lead you to something or someone new. Just keep an open mind and heart.”
Later that week, Rain decided to take Jason’s advice to heart. He ventured out into the nearby town, exploring new places and meeting new people. It was during one of these outings that Rain crossed paths with Alex, a kind and easygoing person who seemed genuinely interested in getting to know him.
They struck up a conversation at a café, and Rain found himself unexpectedly enjoying Alex’s company. They talked about everything from music to travel, and for the first time in a while, Rain felt a spark of hope.
As the days went by, Rain and Alex continued to spend time together. Rain found comfort in Alex’s presence and began to see the possibility of new beginnings. He still thought about Phayu and the pain he felt, but he also realized that it was time for him to embrace the future and allow himself to find happiness.
By the end of the week, Rain felt a sense of renewed purpose. He planned to return to university with a clearer mind and a hopeful heart, ready to face whatever came next and to keep moving forward in his own journey of self-discovery.
