Abegail_Brookes
During a cruel prank at school, 15-year-old Akane-bullied and unable to swim-is pushed into a restricted pool by her classmates and nearly drowns. But instead of death, she awakens in a mysterious, quiet version of her school, saved by a kind boy named Akito. As they bond in this strange realm between life and death, Akane experiences warmth, connection, and a sense of peace she's never known. But as time ticks away, Akane must choose: remain in this comforting limbo or return to a painful reality. In the end, Akito makes the heartbreaking choice for her, ensuring she lives on-even as he stays behind. Upon waking in the real world, Akane finds the strength to move forward, forever carrying the memory of the boy who saved her heart and life.
A short story by Abegail Brookes