Chapter 4

“Wait! Ryuuko!!” Asumi called out, finally catching up to me as we struggled to catch our breaths.

“What is happening with you?”

I threw myself on to her chest and cried.

“Asumi, I don’t know what is going on! I can’t remember anything and I’m seeing weird imagery and ... and...” I sobbed as the tears flowed uncontrollably from my eyes.

“There, there. It’s going to be okay.” She said as she gently embraced me.

“Here, I’ve got you that cherry drink you like so much.”

“T-thank you.”

She handed me a can of juice and sat beside me.

“How are you feeling?”

I did not respond. Slowly, I took a sip of the juice. Its sugary, tangy taste bubbled in my mouth and smoothly went down my throat. I was finally able to calm down, just a little. We both sat in silence as we watched the setting sun slowly disappeared beneath the horizons.

“You said,” Asumi’s voice finally broke the silence, “You don’t remember anything?”

I quietly stared at my can of juice.

“Then does that mean ... you don’t remember anything about me as well?” There was a hint of sadness in her voice. I could see her hands trembling slightly, as if she was afraid of hearing my answer.