My eyes opened.
The ceiling.
My room.
The same place.
But it didn't feel the same anymore.
"…Lia."
Her name slipped out quietly.
The memory still fresh.
Too fresh.
Like it just happened.
I sat up slowly.
My chest felt heavy.
Not from pain.
From something deeper.
"She chose him…"
The words felt sharp.
Like they were cutting from the inside.
My hands clenched.
"…Fine."
I stood up.
This time… no hesitation.
No confusion.
Only one thing remained.
Resolve.
Knock.
"Oi! Open up!"
Mal.
I looked at the door.
Silence filled the room.
But this time…
It wasn't fear.
"…You took everything."
My voice was low.
Calm.
But cold.
The pressure around me returned.
Stronger than before.
The air trembled slightly.
"…Now I'll take it back."
I stepped forward.
Hand on the door.
No pause this time.
I opened it.
Mal stood there, just like before.
Arms crossed.
Same look.
Same arrogance.
"You're late," he said. "Get mov—"
I moved first.
Faster than before.
Cleaner.
Sharper.
My fist shot forward.
Straight toward his face.
For a split second—
His eyes widened.
Impact.