It was just like old times.

I woke up in the mess that was my apartment.

I don't know what I was thinking in those moments,

or if my brain was functioning at all.

But like a robot, I carried on with life-

I went to take a shower, eat some cupped noodles for breakfast, and headed out for work.

But I stopped,

just as I opened the door.

It was just like old times.

On my doorstep was an envelope with my name and address written on it.

It was just like old times.

My name and address, written in those familiar curves and lines.

It was like waking up after a long, dreamless sleep.

For the first time in years, it was like I was breathing again.

My name and address, written in ink, written by those fingers, cradled by those gentle hands.

My name and address, written by Akari.

It was just like old times.


And now I watch her-

her beautiful face, concealed under a thin veil,

her soft, silky hair, flowing in luscious curls around her shoulders, framing her neck.

Her eyes shined brightly and her red lips quivered into a smile.

I remember those eyes, I remember that smile.

She walked slowly,

as if she's got all the time in the world.

She held a bouquet of flowers in her hands- but none of them were as beautiful as her.

A ring glimmered in her finger, but it couldn't be as bright as her eyes.

I remember those eyes, I remember that smile.

For a split second, her eyes meet mine.

I remember those eyes, I remember that smile.

Alas, the distance was closed.

Her eyes shined even more with tears and her lips widened in happiness.

I remember those eyes, I remember that smile.

But they weren't for me.

I watch as my heart sinks in my chest,

the girl that I love and the man she loves.

I let a single tear drop,

but when I look up again,

they were gone.

In their place was a thirteen year old girl and a thirteen year old boy.

Two children in the snow-covered earth.

I remember those eyes, I remember that smile.

"The speed at which cherry blossom petals fall, 5 centimeters per second."

Who knew, that like cherry blossom petals,

my tears fall 5 centimeters per second.