Chapter 7: Awakening from the Nightmare
As the dream Senpai had assured her of his forgiveness and love, Nagatoro had felt a sense of closure and warmth, only to have it cruelly ripped away.
She awoke with a start, her body drenched in sweat, her heart pounding in her chest. The room around her was dark, and the silence was suffocating. The couch she laid on, drenched in sweat, the TV that had broadcasted the terrible news, off.
Nagatoro realized that it had all been a nightmare, a terrible trick played by her subconscious.
NAGATORO (panicked)
No... Senpai... it can't be true...
Her sister, Misaki, who had been watching over her, rushed to her side.
MISAKI (concerned)
Little-sis, you're awake! You were sweating and mumbling in your sleep. Are you okay?
Nagatoro's breaths came in ragged gasps as the nightmare's grip slowly released her. She wiped away her tears and looked at her sister, her voice shaky.
NAGATORO
It was all a dream, Misaki... Senpai... he's not gone...
Nagatoro let out a sigh of relief.
MISAKI (gentle)
Hayase, dreams can be cruel, but they're not reality. You have a chance to make things right.
Determination welled up in Nagatoro's eyes as she realized what she needed to do.
NAGATORO (resolved)
You're right, Sis. I can't waste any more time. I have to go to Senpai and tell him how I truly feel.
Without a moment's hesitation, Nagatoro jumped up from the couch, her heart pounding with renewed hope and purpose.
MISAKI (supportive)
Go, Hayase. Make things right. Senpai deserves to know the truth.
Nagatoro nodded, her steps filled with determination as she rushed out the door, heading straight for Senpai's home. She couldn't let the nightmare hold her back any longer. She had to tell Senpai that she loved him before it was too late.
