V5 interlude 1: Cross section isolation

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Translator: Soafp

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I wanted to become strong.

Because I saw my mother crying alone in the living room at night.

She would leave for work early in the morning and come home late at night. That was our life. We only had a few hours together each day.

I couldn't burden her with my needs. I just made a strong vow.

I wanted to protect her. I was the only man in the house.

I started setting an alarm to wake up early. I worked hard at cooking until I could make meals.

I cleaned, I did laundry, and eventually, I could handle all the housework.

And then, I no longer needed my mother.

I wanted to become strong.

Because I saw my sister crying, and it was because of me.

I tried to fill the loneliness by depending on her. That became a burden, and she eventually exploded.

I regretted causing her pain, and I forgave my sister who kept apologizing. It wasn't her fault.

But that only made her suffer more. I couldn't do anything about it; I was powerless.

So, I stayed away. I avoided her.

I believed that time would heal everything.

So I wouldn't depend on her again, so she wouldn't feel responsible again.

I distanced my heart to remain indifferent.

And then, I no longer needed my sister.

I wanted to become strong.

To not lose my precious childhood friend. Her smile always healed me.

I didn't want to betray her pure, innocent affection. Being with her was the most fun.

She laughed innocently, played joyfully, and knew no malice. She was an expressive girl.

She was my friend, my best friend, my childhood friend. —And then I lost it all, hoping for something beyond that.

She already had someone who protected her. There was no disappointment or frustration.

At some point, I realized she disliked me. But still, seeking her was just my ego.

I understood that I was no longer needed.

And then, I no longer needed my childhood friend.

I became strong.

I studied hard, trained my body, and devoted myself to club activities.

I made friends with classmates. Though different in gender, they were in the same basketball club.

She was vibrant and full of charm.

Before I knew it, we spent a lot of time together. Probably, I didn't dislike that time.

Even when she confessed her fake love for me, nothing changed. Reality was just there.

But my classmate suffered and I suddenly met with an accident.

I instinctively tried to protect her—and got badly injured. I felt relieved that she was safe.

I shielded her from blame, saying I was just inexperienced.

From the beginning, I didn't need my classmate.

I had such encounters over and over again.

There was always someone unnecessary, crying.

I thought I had become strong.

Not needing anyone, and not being needed by anyone, the boy was complete.

Believing that was true strength, trusting in that ephemeral correctness.

—So why, why do you reach out your hand to me?