After Aiko's departure, Ren struggled to adjust. Each day felt like a reminder of what he had lost. He buried himself in poetry, his journal filled with thoughts of Aiko—the laughter they shared, the dreams they built together. Sora and Mei noticed his despondence and tried to pull him back into their lives.
"Let's go out this weekend. A movie, maybe?" Sora suggested one evening.
Ren nodded absently, the thought of spending time with friends a comforting notion, but his heart wasn't in it. They ended up at the movies, but Ren felt adrift, as if he were watching his life from a distance.
Later, as they walked home, Mei turned to him. "You need to let this go, Ren. Aiko wouldn't want you to be like this."
"I know," he sighed, running a hand through his hair. "But how do I let go of someone who meant everything to me?"
"You start by living for yourself," Mei replied gently. "We're here for you. You don't have to do this alone."
Ren nodded, grateful for their support, but the truth lingered—he felt utterly alone.