Prologue
Rika remembered when she first read V's note.
'My love, I regret to inform you that I simply can't stand idly by…'
It filled her with pain beyond imagination, even 6 months later, when she's standing in front of her mirror and tying up her hair for the upcoming VFA party.
She was so afraid. Afraid of being alone, or forgotten— even if Saeran promised he would never leave her alone. Rika was like a big sister to him, something he claimed he didn't have growing up.
'…My mother died awhile back, and because of that, I have secrets I keep from you even now.'
V's words echoed in her mind. Hand-typed, Times New Roman, 12-point font. He had always insisted on typing; said it kept everything perfect. She smiled as she thought about her fiancé's tendency to keep everything flawless— all of his letters were hand typed, his photographs all at 90 degree angles in their albums, and Rika's hair was always brushed smooth. V said brushing her hair was always such a stress reliever for him.
It was no surprise to her that this letter was also printed. She can't even recall ever seeing his hand writing! Strange that she would only now realize such a fact. Maybe she was thinking too much? It had only been 6 months, yet it felt like it happened an hour ago.
'I can't bear to see you in pain because of me. I love you. I don't want to hurt you. You mean everything to me.'
Everything had ended so quickly for them, too. They were only engaged for a year, as Rika patiently waited for him to consider making wedding plans that never happened.
Her heart was breaking again.
'That is why I can't keep on. I can't stay. The sun engulfs you in love, but as it does…Rika, I'm left in the dark.'
Luckily, a knock at the door interrupted her thoughts. Rika opened it, smiling as she saw Saeran and Jaehee dressed up and waiting.
"Ready to go, Ms. VFA President?" Saeran asked, checking his watch. "We already have some guests showing up."
Rika's smiled brightened. "Of course! You two did such a wonderful job, by the way, you two. Were you okay with coordinating, Jaehee?"
"It was rather easy. I'm surprised at how easy it was to convince the guests." The brunette replied.
"I'm glad you were up to the task. Is Jumin waiting?"
"Rather impatiently." Saeran retorted, rolling his eyes with a huff.
Rika's face softened. It seemed everyone else was fine again.
"That's wonderful. I have to ask you a favor, though, Saeran."
"Hm?"
"I want this to be the last party for a while."
The two of them looked up at her in alarm.
"I— why Rika?" the younger man asked her.
"It's just…with what happened to V…I feel like I need some time to carry on before we move further."
It was quiet as Saeran considered the proposition, before he sighed. "Alright. But we have to make this one count."
Rika nodded. "When have I not?"
He and Jaehee smiled as the blonde girl moved to head downstairs.
'I have to end it all. I have to take my life. I'll see you…elsewhere.'