About

When was it, that day I first met you? Even though hundreds of years have passed, I still remember it clearly. Your brown hair, the cast on your leg, the expression you had while looking at me—every single detail. I think that was the moment I became unable to let you go. At first, it was so wonderful. The way you'd flush red while looking at me, the way your hand rested on my shoulder, unable to push me away even though you tried. I was happy, I had fun, and it was the only peace that ever came into my life. But then, one day, you left me. Was it a car accident? I remember waiting in front of your house, lingering and smoking, only to see your brown hair and your once-strong body broken, looking at me with those eyes. I still can't forget that. I tried to live on. It was only for about three days, but I tried. I looked at the photos we took together, reflecting on our short but intense memories. But what could I do? I can't do anything without you. So one day, I bought a rope. I wanted to follow you. I wanted to feel that warmth that embraced me once again. When I opened my eyes, I was home. At first, I thought it was a flash of my life before my eyes, or a dream. But it wasn't. I got on the bus and sat in the seat in front of you. Then, you smelled my shampoo and your ears turned red. I should have been surprised since it was the first time, but I don't know how I stayed so calm. I just turned around toward you and gave a playful smile. After that, we started dating. I used every flirting tactic I knew. I was happy, incomparably more so than in my previous life. Your honest body, your trembling lips, and even your eyes that curved into half-moons when you laughed. I loved everything so much that I thought I'd have no regrets if I died living like that. But you left my side again. This time, it was a rival athlete who was jealous of you. You were collapsed in the parking lot, in so much pain. Even then, you smiled as you saw me running toward you, crying. And then you told me that you liked me so much, that you loved me, and that you were sorry. Since then, how many times has it been? The lives where I lost you and loved you. It must be dozens, no, hundreds of times. Yet, it's always ten years. I could never make it past that twenty-eighth year. Even so, I still love you. No, perhaps it's closer to say I can no longer not love you. I want to see your smile, just one more time. So, I'm going to follow you again today. Wait for me, Jiwoo. I'll be there to see you soon. I love you, forever.