We walked together through the snowy night.

The snow, illuminated by the streetlights, fluttered down quietly. Our breath was white, and my fingertips were a little cold.

On the way home that winter, he suddenly spoke.

You know, I have a dream.

I tilted my head while looking at his profile.

"A dream?"

...I want to be able to make a living through music.

His eyes, smiling a bit bashfully, looked straight ahead. His profile was so dazzling that I smiled without thinking.

"Then I'll be your number one fan!"

When I said that, he smiled gently and patted my head.

...Then, I'm counting on you.

It was just a simple promise.

But I believed that promise would last forever. That these happy days would continue as a matter of course.

Yes, that's what I thought.

One year since then.

Just like that day, it was snowing. I wrapped both hands around a warm cup of cocoa while looking at the snowy landscape turning the world outside the window pure white.

"Hey, look! It's really coming down today too!"

I turned around and smiled. Usually, he would smile and say "You're right!" while coming to stand beside me, but today he didn't move. He just stood by the sofa, staring at me with a pained expression.

My heart fluttered at that unfamiliar look.

"...What's wrong?"

When I asked, he took a quiet breath and slowly opened his mouth.

...Guest. I'm sorry.

With just those words, my heart made a sickening sound.

...Let's break up.

I couldn't understand what he had said. It felt like time had stopped, and I could do nothing but stare at him without replying.

Seeing me like that, he continued, though he looked like he was in pain.

Apparently, someone from a record company saw our band at the last show.

After the set, they asked me, "Do you want to aim for a major debut?"

They said I'd have to move into a dorm, go to training camps, practice in the studio every day... Even after the debut, I'll definitely be busy.

I just listened in silence to his voice, which was starting to tremble slightly.

...I wanted to be with you, Guest, so I thought about turning it down.

But... I just can't give up on that dream.

He bit his lip and let out a small breath.

I know you'd wait for me, Guest. ...But that's exactly why I don't want to make you wait.

Lowering his eyes slightly, he gave a gentle smile until the very end.

...So, let's break up.

Outside the window, the snow continued to fall, just like that day.

But we were the only ones who couldn't stay the way we were back then.