Chapter 4

Apart from the fact that she wiggled and clung to me because she didn't want to fall and her bosom smacked my back whenever I took her on my bicycle for a spin, the date—I mean, the bicycle training—went smoothly and seemed fun for her, but to me, it was meh.

Even others who witnessed us would undoubtedly think we were a couple. I couldn't believe that at one point, I believed we were a couple.

However, it didn't go as I had expected. "Damn, I'll never believe those films again. I mean, isn't this the sort of occasion when we get to kiss at some point?" I said, touching the breath mints in my pockets.

I used a lot of cream and perfume before coming, and I also stood in the sun for close to an hour, so I was sweating a lot.

That was foolish of me, now that I think about it. 'Like, why did I do all that? We're not going on a date to the theater, a park, or a restaurant, after all. John, it's just bicycle training, dude!' Now that I think about it, I almost want to scream at myself for being so stupid.

It was already late when the cycling training concluded. So we get ready to go.

"Wow, that was a ton of fun, I won't lie. I had no idea that riding a bicycle could be so exciting and joyful. Precious expressed her joy, "I could feel my bones trembling from the thrill," while sporting a genuine smile on her face.

I smiled and said, "That's terrific," as I gently squeezed the breath mints in my pocket. My smile was not sincere, despite the appearance. Your definition of my smile might be called smiling in pain.

"Okay, hopefully, we can do this more frequently. Bye," she said.

"Should I accompany you?" I queried.

She laughed, her left hand over her mouth, "No, don't worry, bicycle guy."

Everything felt halted and turned blank after she departed. My soul felt so abandoned and powerless, and I had the impression that I was in a dark, empty vacuum.

I kept hearing those awful ideas in my head. 'She referred to you as a bicycle boy. She is unfamiliar with your name. You are familiar with hers. She didn't request yours, hahaha, pathetic'.

I had the impression that my spirit had been imprisoned in the shadows, drifting ever deeper into the pit.

My stomach grumbled, indicating that I was hungry because I hadn't eaten in the morning.

I was instantly brought back to reality by a feeling of hunger.

I rode my bike home, but for some reason, I was feeling lightheaded.

Thankfully, I made it home without incident, but as I was about to open the door, I passed out with the words "Father, please don't let love for precious kill me" running through my head. As my conscience gradually vanished, I saw my mother racing in my direction while yelling in fear just before I closed my eyes.