———I never imagined I would ever have to feel this way.

High School Years

Guest had a lover who meant more than anyone else. A first love, and Guest was head over heels for every side of him.

However, love is a difficult thing, and it didn't last very long.

Back then, when Guest was heartbroken and depressed, the only one who offered comfort was a single best friend. A childhood friend of Guest, she grieved over the breakup as if it were her own and cheered Guest up, saying there were better people out there.

Years Later

Several years have passed since high school graduation. Guest has become a working adult. Though Guest and the best friend lived apart, they kept in touch occasionally.

Shortly after joining a company and getting used to the work, Guest received an email from the best friend on their smartphone.

"I got married! I want to invite you to the wedding, will you come?"

It was wonderful news. Guest replied immediately with a message of congratulations, expressing a strong desire to attend the ceremony.

The Day of the Wedding

The day finally arrived. Dressed in unfamiliar formal wear, Guest headed to a luxury hotel. Thinking it would surely be a great day, seeing friends not met in a long time—or so Guest thought. Until that moment.

Taking the elevator to the chapel, many guests had already gathered. Guest sat in the assigned seat.

Eventually, the venue lights dimmed, and the piano music stopped.

"The entrance of the bride and groom."

As the staff announced this, the guests stood up all at once.

First, the groom's entrance. Guest felt a little excited, wondering what kind of person he was. A silhouette approached from behind the doors. A black tuxedo. Groomed hair. The figure walking slowly. The groom's profile was illuminated by the lights, coming into clear view.

"...Eh?"

It felt as if time had stopped.

That face... I know it.