Chapter 7 — My Imaginary Boyfriend

So broad that I finally don't have to go around anyone else's feelings anymore. A few months later, Van Canh sent me an email. The email subject is: 【Sorry.】 I didn't open it. Directly transferred to Trinh Tu Bach to save as evidence of harassment. After that, I heard that Van Canh had withdrawn from the original competition project, and his eligibility for direct admission to graduate school was also canceled. He tried to move in another direction, but because of his disciplinary record, he was restricted from going anywhere. Tham Tri Huynh also cannot participate in the exchange program. The apology post with her real name was pinned for seven days, with people viewing it every day. She used to hide behind anonymous accounts, enjoying the feeling of controlling public opinion. Now, she finally knows what it feels like to be stared at and talked about by others. I don't continue to care about them. On the contrary, Trinh Tu Bach and I gradually came into contact with each other more. He knows how to keep things in moderation. Never exceeded the limit. He didn't ask who I was having dinner with today. Don't ask questions just because I don't respond to messages promptly. Don't turn your help into a debt of gratitude. One time, when the activity ended, it was already dark. He and I brought the documents back to the student union office. When going downstairs, he asked, "Do you need me to take you back to the dormitory?" I looked at him. He quickly added: "If it's inconvenient, it's okay. I'm just asking, not deciding for you." I couldn't help but laugh. "Trinh Tu Bach, are you always this careful?" He thought for a moment. "That's respect." The night wind blew through the tree tops, the streetlights pulled his shadow long. I suddenly felt that a relationship that truly makes people feel secure is not about solemnly declaring ownership. It's that person who stands next to you, but always remembers to leave the choice to you. I said: "Then take me home." He nodded, walking side by side with me. Don't get too close, and don't intentionally keep your distance. Sufficient distance. Later, many people asked me if I regretted making a big deal of it after going through that turbulence. I said no. Because it's not a big deal. It's about pulling the malice hidden behind anonymity, ambiguity, intimacy and gossip out into the sun. I was almost locked to death in a relationship that never existed. But this time, I personally drew the line and pulled myself out. Reincarnation is not to love someone again. Nor is it to prove that you are worthy of being loved by anyone. It's about finally understanding that— I don't need anyone to claim ownership over me. I belong only to myself. RUN OUT OF