Unwanted Affection Chapter 3

Chapter Three: The Distant Echo of Love

In the heart of Yokohama, the seasons mirrored the shifts in the relationship between Kataki and Maki. The inseparable duo now found themselves on uncertain ground, where the shadows of change painted the contours of their connection in hues of complexity and detachment.

Maki's transformation into a gyaru came with a cold breeze that left Kataki feeling increasingly isolated. The warmth of her once-genuine affection became elusive, reserved only for moments when her desires demanded fulfillment. The whispers of lovey-dovey sweetness and affectionate gestures were now a transactional currency, exchanged solely when the need for money arose.

Undeterred by the growing chill in Maki's demeanor, Kataki clung to the fragments of their past love. In an attempt to provide for her needs, he found himself embracing the challenges of six different part-time jobs, each with its unique set of trials.

• Café Barista: Early mornings found Kataki navigating the delicate art of brewing coffee. The aroma of freshly ground beans filled the air, but it couldn't mask the bitterness of the emotions brewing in his heart.
• Bookstore Assistant: In the afternoons, Kataki sought solace among the shelves of books, organizing and recommending novels to customers. The fictional worlds he delved into provided a temporary escape from the harsh reality of his own narrative.
• Delivery Courier: Evenings saw him weaving through the streets, delivering packages to various destinations. Each doorstep he approached served as a poignant reminder of the doors closing between him and Maki.

• Grocery Store Cashier: Late nights found Kataki stationed at the checkout counter, scanning items and exchanging pleasantries with tired customers. The monotony of the beep-beep of the barcode scanner mirrored the monotony of his efforts to win back Maki's affection.
• Tutor for Young Students: Weekends became dedicated to tutoring younger students. Their eager minds provided a temporary respite from the complexities of his own unraveling relationship.
• Dog Walker: On Sundays, Kataki sought solace in the companionship of four-legged friends. The loyalty of these animals contrasted sharply with the uncertainty he faced in matters of the heart.

As Kataki toiled away in the hustle of multiple jobs, Maki, now surrounded by her fashionable female friends, seemed oblivious to his efforts. She indulged in hangouts and outings, leaving Kataki on the outskirts of her social circle. The laughter that once echoed between them now resonated in the company of others, leaving Kataki a silent spectator to the life he once believed they would share.

The courtyard, where the tender roots of their story took hold, transformed into a place of echoes. It carried the whispers of deceit and the silent cries of a heart unconditionally in love. Kataki's love, like an unwavering flame, refused to flicker even in the face of Maki's indifference. He remained committed to his promise, determined to weather the storm brewing between them.

The harsh reality, however, cast a long shadow over the simplicity of their beginnings. The sacrifices made in the pursuit of love were etched in the lines on Kataki's face, telling a story of resilience and unwavering commitment. As the shadows of change deepened, the next chapter of "Unwanted Affection" unfolded, carrying with it the weight of unspoken sacrifices and the relentless pursuit of a love that seemed to slip through the crevices of reality. The courtyard, once a sanctuary of blossoming love, now echoed with the footsteps of a journey that had taken an unexpected turn.

Fractured Echoes, the upcoming chapter, will be available tomorrow. 14/11/2023