Fragments Of Us

The rooftop was quiet, the distant hum of the city serving as a muted backdrop. Aiko stood by the concrete railing, her brown eyes fixed on something beyond the towering skyscrapers. Yet, her gaze was unfocused, her mind elsewhere. Should I do this? The question lingered, heavy and unresolved.

A sudden gust of wind swept through, tousling her dark black hair. Something about that wind—its clarity, its force—made her decide. Without overthinking, she pulled out her phone and dialed Ren, her partner for as long as she could remember.

Minutes later, Ren appeared on the rooftop, walking to Aiko's side.

"Hey, Aiko. Why'd you call me up here?" Ren asked, her voice casual but tinged with curiosity.

Aiko hesitated, gripping the railing tightly. She kept her eyes on the skyline, avoiding Ren's gaze.

"I… I have something to say," Aiko murmured, her voice barely audible.

Ren tilted her head, waiting. "Go on."

Aiko swallowed hard. The words caught in her throat for a moment before she finally spoke.

"I think… maybe we need to take a break."

The words hung in the air, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. Ren stared at Aiko, taken aback.

"A break? Where's this coming from? Are you serious?"

Aiko finally turned to face Ren, her voice steady but her heart pounding.

"I don't know, I think we need this."

Ren's expression shifted from confusion to hurt. She forced a small, sad smile. "If that's what you want… I'll respect it."

"Ren, I…" Aiko started, but the words wouldn't come.

Ren shook her head gently. "It's okay, Aiko. Take care."

Without another word, Ren turned and walked away, her footsteps fading into the distance. Aiko watched her go, the rooftop door swinging shut behind her.

Should I stop her? Tell her it was all a joke? The thought gnawed at her, but she stayed rooted in place.

Alone now, Aiko leaned against the railing, staring at the horizon. The last drop of sunlight slipped below the skyline, casting the world in shadows. Another gust of wind rushed past, breaking the stillness.

Did I make the right choice? The question echoed in her mind, unanswered.