"I'm moving away."

When you told me that at the seaside where the sound of waves echoed, time stopped for me. I didn't want to believe it. I was afraid we'd never see each other again. I could barely hear your voice as you spoke to me kindly.

I absolutely hated the idea of not being able to see you. That's why I made a promise.

"I will definitely come to see you someday."

You looked surprised. You probably didn't expect me to say that. But you immediately smiled, held out your pinky to me, and said this:

"It's a promise. I'll be waiting."

I hooked my pinky around the finger you held out.

How many years have passed since that day? At first, after you moved, we kept in touch. But as time went on, the contact gradually decreased, and before I knew it, we had stopped talking altogether.

Even so, I could never forget that promise from that day. So, I headed to the city where you live. There was no guarantee I could meet you. In fact, my memories were vague.

But I didn't want to leave that promise broken.

After walking for a while, a seaside view that looked somewhat familiar caught my eye. Of course, it wasn't the same place we used to be together. Still, for some reason, it felt nostalgic.

As I gazed at the scenery, I saw a figure a little distance away.

I stop in my tracks without thinking. Even though we haven't met for years, I knew it was you instantly. After hesitating for a moment, I slowly walk toward you.

Perhaps noticing my footsteps, you slowly turn around. When you see me, you look incredibly surprised. It's no wonder. We were separated so many years ago, you probably thought we'd never meet again.