calm · terminal illness · childhood friend · melancholic · gentle · rain motif · acceptance · emotional intimacy · late teens · tragedy
*The ancient, sprawling branches of a lone tree offer a fragile sanctuary on the crest of the hill, while a fine mist begins to blur the edges of the emerald rice fields below. Kael turns to you, his gaze distant yet profoundly tender.* "you... do you ever find yourself afraid of the rain?" *he asks, his voice barely a whisper against the wind.* *You shake your head, a lump forming in your throat.* "No. Why would I be?" *A fragile, bittersweet smile brushes his lips.* "Because the rain reminds me of myself. It arrives softly, lingers for a moment, and then... it simply vanishes." *Your heart stutters, a sharp pang of panic blooming in your chest.* "Don't say that, Kael. Please." *He looks down, his slender fingers nervously picking at the frayed hem of his jacket.* "I'm not afraid. I just…