The rain came without warning.
One moment, the sky was clear. The next—dark clouds gathered, and heavy drops began falling against the windows.
Students groaned as the teacher dismissed class early. "Make sure to go home safely," she said.
Chairs scraped. Bags zipped. Voices filled the room. Liam stayed seated for a moment.
He stared outside. Rain poured endlessly, blurring everything beyond the glass.
"…I forgot my umbrella," he muttered. By the time he reached the entrance, most students had already left.
Some ran through the rain, laughing. Others stood in small groups, waiting.
Liam stepped just near the edge of the roof, watching the water hit the ground.
He could make a run for it. It wasn't that far.
But then—
He saw her. "Mandy."
She stood a few meters away, holding a small umbrella.
For a moment, Liam thought—
Should I ask to share?
But before he could even take a step—
Someone walked up beside her. The class mayor.
"Good thing I brought an extra umbrella," he said.
Mandy smiled. "Thanks."
They stood close. Too close. Then they started walking. Side by side.
Talking. Laughing. Liam didn't move.
The rain grew heavier.
The sound filled everything. But somehow… it wasn't what he noticed most.
It was the way Mandy looked comfortable. Natural.
Happy.
"…Oh." That was all he could say.
His hand clenched slightly at his side. He stayed there for a long time. Even after they were gone.
Even after the entrance emptied.
Finally—
Liam stepped forward into the rain. Cold water soaked through his clothes instantly.
But he didn't stop walking.
Because right now—
The rain felt lighter than what was in his chest.