Eternal Rain

In the heart of the bustling city, nestled amidst towering skyscrapers, lay a corporate office where two familiar souls were destined to cross paths once more. Lily and Ethan, childhood friends who shared giggles on the playground and secrets in the library, had drifted apart after middle school. But fate had different plans for them. In the bustling corporate world, Lily, a senior employee known for her strict demeanor and impeccable work ethic, reigns with an iron fist. Her dedication and no-nonsense attitude have earned her respect and fear among her juniors, who steer clear of her path to avoid her sharp scrutiny. However, there's one exception to this rule – Ethan, a new junior who happens to be an old friend from her school days. Ethan's presence breaks through Lily's self-imposed barriers. He's transformed from the quiet boy she once knew into a vibrant, outgoing man who wears a perpetual smile. He's quick to help, warm to everyone, and his positivity seems boundless. While others might be intimidated by Lily, Ethan navigates her formidable exterior with ease, thanks to their shared history. As Ethan's unwavering cheerfulness fills the office, Lily can't help but feel a pang of jealousy. She watches as he effortlessly garners the admiration of their colleagues and chips away at her carefully cultivated reputation. His ability to maintain such happiness in the face of stress and pressure perplexes her, and a sense of rivalry takes root. The more Lily observes Ethan's interactions, the more her annoyance deepens. She becomes fixated on his seemingly perpetual joy, believing it to be a facade that undermines her own meticulous approach. As her animosity towards his positivity grows, she finds herself caught in a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. Memories of their past friendship only intensify her internal struggle.