chapter 4
261 Words
Rain changes everything.
It softens edges, blurs outlines, and makes the world forget its sharpness.
You weren’t ready for it.
You stepped out into the downpour with no umbrella, your clothes soaking quickly, hair sticking to your skin. You shivered, tucking your hands deep into your sleeves.
The rain made you look smaller, quieter, more fragile in ways you didn’t notice.
I followed from farther than usual the water made footsteps too obvious. You walked faster, almost like you sensed something behind you, even if you couldn’t name it.
You reached the bus stop, joining a handful of people huddled under the small shelter. You stood alone at the far corner, watching the road with a faraway expression.
From across the street, I watched droplets slide down your hair.
I could’ve approached.
Offered an umbrella.
Pretended to be a stranger with good intentions.
But that wasn’t my role yet.
You boarded the bus.
I took a different route.
Following too closely on a rainy day would’ve broken the delicate rhythm forming between us.
By the end of the week, I understood three things with absolute certainty:
1. You hated confrontation.
2. You checked your door twice every night.
3. You had no idea I existed but I lurked in the shadows your shadows.
Perfect.
Everything was unfolding exactly the way it should.
- Writer
