The Day I Started Growing Out My Hair

She was more precious than anyone, more beloved than anyone—my childhood friend. Until that day, that moment. The summer before high school entrance exams. One day, as I studied in my room as usual with my childhood friend, whom I had harbored a long unrequited love for, she suddenly said "I got a boyfriend" and smiled beautifully, like a flower blooming. I managed to swallow my shock and whispered "Congratulations," and she responded with a smile, "Thank you." Then, as if to stop my breath, she uttered certain words. "I hate you." ────This is a story about finding your true self from a long, long unrequited love. ※Participation work in the Hoshi Hana Girls Project, 7th installment. No impact if read standalone.