LGHTNOVELBOOK Chapter 18: Goodbye
Raxian kept checking his phone, his frustration growing with every passing hour. He stared at the message he'd sent to Sable, willing her to respond.
Raxian: Hey, Sable. I don't know what's going on, but if you need someone to talk to—or just to listen—I'm here.
It had been four days. Nothing.
Sable's silence wasn't unusual—she had a tendency to withdraw when things got tough. But this time, it felt different. It wasn't just that she wasn't replying; it was the sense that she was shutting herself off entirely, from everyone. Even online, where she usually found solace, she was nowhere to be found.
For Sable, the days blurred together in a haze of doubt and frustration. She hated this. Hated the way her life felt like it was spiraling out of her control. Leaving Neonspire wasn't just about packing up and moving; it was about abandoning the fragile connections she'd spent the last year carefully piecing together. Connections she never expected to matter so much.
She remembered her conversation with Raze under the bridge. His words had struck a chord, but even so, she found herself falling back into old habits. Shutting everyone out felt like the only way to protect herself from the hurt of leaving. But the more she pushed people away, the more she felt like she was suffocating under the weight of her own choices.
It had been days since her ill-fated custom game with Raxian—a game that had only served to amplify her feelings of disconnection. League used to be her escape, her sanctuary. But now? It felt tainted, a reminder of everything she couldn't seem to fix.
Still... was this how she wanted everyone to remember her?
Was this the legacy she wanted to leave behind?
The thought twisted uncomfortably in her chest. She didn't want to be remembered as the girl who vanished without a trace, who left everyone wondering what went wrong. She wanted to be remembered as the version of herself she'd worked so hard to cultivate: laid-back, confident, utterly cool and chill.
This version of herself—the one hiding away, avoiding everyone, wallowing in uncertainty—wasn't her. Not really.
She needed to snap out of it.
Sable sat on the floor of her room, her back against the bedframe, staring at her phone. Messages from Raxian, Fayne, and even Jake flashed on the screen, unanswered. She scrolled through them, her chest tightening with every notification she'd ignored.
A knock on her bedroom door startled her.
"Sable?" Her dad's voice came through, muffled but concerned. "Dinner's ready. You okay?"
She hesitated, her fingers hovering over her phone screen. "Yeah," she called back, her voice steady but distant. "Be there in a minute."
She put the phone down, staring at the blank screen. For a moment, she thought about responding to Raxian's message, to at least let him know she'd seen it. But the thought of opening up—of being vulnerable—still made her stomach churn.
Instead, she took a deep breath, standing up and brushing herself off. Maybe she wasn't ready to face them just yet. But she couldn't keep running forever.
It was time to figure out what kind of goodbye she wanted to leave behind.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sable had found herself turning to Raze more than she ever thought she would. He had a way of listening, of being present without pressing her for answers or explanations. She wasn't sure if it was fair to rely on him like this, but he didn't seem to mind. And maybe… this was what friends were supposed to do. Unconditional trust.
She tucked her phone into her pocket as they strolled through the quiet streets. The cold night air nipped at her skin, but it felt grounding, a sharp contrast to the turmoil in her head.
"I've been thinking," she started, her voice low but steady.
Raze glanced at her, tilting his head slightly, but said nothing, waiting for her to continue.
"About what you said," she added after a moment. "You know… about how disappearing doesn't make anything better."
He didn't respond immediately, his steps falling in rhythm with hers. He seemed to know she wasn't finished.
"If I'm going to leave," she continued, her tone firmer now, "I don't want people to remember this version of me. The one who's been hiding, shutting everyone out. I hate it. I feel so… lost."
Raze looked at her, his expression soft but serious. "So don't let them."
She let out a breath, her lips curving into a faint, humorless smile. "Easier said than done."
"Maybe," he admitted with a shrug. "But when has that ever stopped you?"
That made her pause. She hadn't thought of herself as someone who didn't back down, not lately. But hearing it from him? It struck something inside her.
"I want people to remember the real me," she said, her voice quieter now. "The one I've worked so hard to be. Not… this."
Raze stopped walking, turning to face her fully. "Then be her. You don't have to figure it all out at once, but you've still got time to show them. To show yourself."
She met his gaze, her chest tightening at the weight of his words.
"Thanks, Raze," she murmured, the sincerity in her voice catching even her off guard.
He smiled, shoving his hands into his jacket pockets. "What are friends for?"
For the first time in what felt like weeks, Sable felt the faintest flicker of clarity. She didn't have all the answers, but she didn't feel as lost. Maybe she couldn't change everything, but she could still decide how she'd go forward. One step at a time.
--------------------------------------------------------
And then, there she was—back at school, as if nothing had happened. But of course, things hadn't just gone back to normal. The whispers and rumors buzzed in the air like static, refusing to die down. Speculations, theories, assumptions—everyone seemed to have their version of what had happened during her brief absence.
Sable wasn't sure why people were so invested in her life. She didn't invite their attention, but maybe that was just the effect she had on people—whether she liked it or not.
As she settled into her seat, unpacking her things with the same deliberate coolness she always carried, she noticed a group of "mean girls" making their way toward her desk.
"Look who decided to show up," one of them drawled, her tone dripping with mockery.
"Guess the mystery queen couldn't keep us waiting forever," another chimed in, her arms crossed as if she was delivering some grand accusation.
Sable didn't even look up. She shrugged lightly, her gaze fixed on her notebook as she flipped it open. "Yeah, I'm back. Thrilling, huh?"
The girls exchanged glances, their smirks faltering slightly. Clearly, they'd expected more of a reaction.
"What, nothing to say for yourself?" one of them pressed, leaning against the desk.
Sable finally looked up, her expression calm but sharp enough to cut through their feigned confidence. "Not really. But if you've got something to say, don't hold back. I'm all ears."
The taunts seemed to lose their edge under her steady gaze, and after a few moments of awkward silence, the group dispersed, muttering under their breath. Sable let out a quiet breath, her attention returning to her notebook.
She was falling back into her old rhythm, or at least trying to. But there were subtle differences—little cracks in her usual composure. Her arm, still healing, throbbed faintly beneath her uniform jacket. Normally, she'd roll up her sleeves without a second thought, but now she kept the jacket on, hiding the bandage underneath.
It was a small thing, but it didn't go unnoticed.
----------------------
Elliot, sitting a few seats away, nudged Maxwell and tilted his head subtly toward Sable's desk. "She's keeping her jacket on," he whispered under his breath.
"Yeah, I noticed," Maxwell murmured back, pushing his glasses up his nose. "That's… different."
"Maybe she's just cold," Elliot suggested, though his tone betrayed his curiosity more than certainty.
"Cold? Come on," Maxwell scoffed softly, keeping his voice low. "This is Sable we're talking about. She's always rolling up her sleeves like she's in some action movie. Something's definitely up."
Elliot leaned back in his chair, glancing at Sable out of the corner of his eye. "I mean… she is kind of like an action hero. The whole mysterious vibe, showing up when you least expect it? It's cool."
Maxwell nodded, lowering his voice even further. "Totally. Like, she's got that 'untouchable protagonist' energy. It's probably why everyone's always talking about her."
"Yeah," Elliot agreed. "But… I wonder what's really going on. You think something happened?"
Maxwell shrugged, though his gaze lingered on her a little too long. "Who knows. But you're not seriously thinking about asking her, are you?"
Elliot smirked, shaking his head. "Yeah, no. I like living. Besides, she'd probably just glare at me until I exploded or something."
Maxwell chuckled under his breath, but his curiosity remained. Sable had always been an enigma to them—a mix of laid-back cool and untouchable mystery. The two of them had spent countless conversations theorizing about her, half in awe, half intimidated. But actually talking to her? That was a whole other level of bravery neither of them possessed.
If Sable had noticed their quiet exchange, she didn't show it. Her focus remained on her notebook, the pen tapping rhythmically against the desk as though the rest of the world didn't exist.
Elliot leaned closer to Maxwell again. "Still… I kind of want to know. You think she'd talk to us if we tried?"
Maxwell raised an eyebrow. "I think she'd shut you down in three seconds flat. But hey, go for it if you're feeling brave. I'll watch your downfall from a safe distance."
Elliot snorted, deciding to let the moment pass. For now, they'd stick to observing from afar. After all, Sable wasn't the kind of person you just casually approached. Not unless you were ready for the consequences.
-------------------------------------------
Raxian and Fayne's respective groups had started to blur their boundaries, their interactions becoming more frequent and natural over time. Though no one openly admitted it, Sable's sudden disappearance was the silent thread that tied them together. Whenever they thought no one was paying attention, quiet speculations would arise, their whispers laced with curiosity and concern.
"Do you think something happened to her?" Mira had asked Leah during one such moment.
"Maybe she's just taking time for herself," Leah had replied, though her tone carried doubt.
Jake, ever the initiator, had picked up on the growing unease. And so, he called for a "group meeting," gathering both circles together after school under the guise of a casual hangout.
The atmosphere in the room was lighter on the surface, with jokes and small talk flowing easily. But beneath it, there was an unspoken tension, a collective curiosity hanging in the air. They all knew why they were here, even if no one outright addressed it.
Jake leaned back in his chair, tossing a ball between his hands as he broke the comfortable silence. "So... it's been a weird couple of days, huh?"
Tess raised an eyebrow, catching the ball when Jake tossed it her way. "Weird how?"
Jake shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "I mean, Sable's back. That's not weird to anyone?"
Fayne glanced at Raxian out of the corner of her eye, but he kept his expression neutral.
Morgan chimed in, crossing his arms. "It's not weird that she's back. What's weird is... why she left in the first place."
The room fell quiet for a moment, everyone exchanging glances.
"Maybe she just needed space," Ethan offered.
"Space from what?" Mira asked, her voice soft but pointed.
Jake tossed the ball again, breaking the tension with a grin. "Look, I'm just saying it's good that she's back. Let's not make it a thing."
But it was a thing, and they all knew it. Sable's absence, her return, and the swirling rumors around both—it was all they could think about, even if they wouldn't admit it.
Raxian, who had been quiet for most of the conversation, finally spoke. "She'll show up when she's ready. Let's not crowd her."
His words carried more weight than he realized, silencing the lingering whispers of concern.
Jake clapped his hands together, breaking the awkward lull. "Alright, then! Let's move on to something fun. Karaoke? Arcade? What's the vibe?"
Though the conversation shifted to lighter topics, the undercurrent of anticipation remained. They didn't know what to expect from Sable, but they were all watching and waiting in their own way.
-------------------------------------------
It took a while, but eventually, Sable decided to approach the group. When she spotted them hanging out together in the hallway—Raxian's crew and Fayne's circle, seamlessly mingling—it caught her off guard. That was new.
She lingered for a moment, unsure of how to approach them. Her absence had created a rift she wasn't sure how to cross. But after a deep breath, she decided to keep it cool, as if nothing had happened. Pretend her disappearance had just been a small hiccup.
"Hey," she said casually, lifting a hand in a half-wave as she walked toward them.
The chatter in the group hushed slightly as heads turned to face her. A mix of surprise, relief, and curiosity flickered across their faces.
Jake was the first to speak, grinning widely. "Well, well, look who decided to grace us with her presence."
Sable smirked faintly, shoving her hands into her jacket pockets. "Miss me already?"
"Obviously," Jake shot back. "You're the glue that keeps this chaos together."
Fayne's eyes darted briefly to Sable's jacket—still on, despite how warm the hallways were. She didn't comment, but her gaze lingered for a beat longer than necessary. Leah, standing next to her, raised an eyebrow as if she'd noticed it too.
"Nice of you to drop by," Raxian said, his tone neutral but his eyes studying her closely. He didn't miss the slight tension in her shoulders or the way her sleeves were buttoned all the way down—a stark contrast to her usual rolled-up, carefree look.
Sable shrugged, keeping her voice light. "Had to make sure you weren't all falling apart without me."
Tess chimed in with a playful smile. "We're holding up okay. Barely."
There was a moment of quiet, the weight of her absence hanging unspoken between them. Sable resisted the urge to fidget, meeting their gazes with practiced nonchalance.
"Well," she said after a pause, "don't let me interrupt. Just figured I'd say hi."
Jake leaned back against the lockers, tossing a glance at the others before replying. "Interrupt? Nah. It's good to have you back, Sable. Really."
His sincerity caught her off guard, but she covered it with a small nod. "Good to be back," she said, though her voice lacked its usual edge.
As the conversation shifted and the group began chatting again, Sable stood there, her hands still tucked in her jacket pockets. She wasn't sure if she felt relief or discomfort being back in the fold. Maybe a little of both.
From the corner of her eye, she noticed Fayne watching her, a flicker of concern in her expression. Raxian, too, seemed unusually quiet, his gaze occasionally flicking toward her jacket.
Sable knew they had questions, but no one dared to ask. Not yet. And for now, she was okay with that.
---------------------------------------------------------------
A text message from Sable in the group chat Jake had organized? It came out of nowhere. She still hadn't responded to Raxian's message from weeks ago, yet here she was, inviting everyone to an after-school hangout.
Raxian stared at his phone, unsure how to feel. Whatever this was, it felt significant. Well, guess he'd play along. There was no way he'd ignore it, even if the timing—and her sudden reappearance—still left him puzzled.
-------------------
Fayne was in the middle of organizing flowers in her mom's flower shop when her phone buzzed. She glanced at the notification, her eyes narrowing slightly as she read the message. "Oh," was all she could muster.
Sure, Sable had been slowly rejoining their circle recently, but this? An invite to a hangout? Fayne couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this than Sable let on.
---------------
Even Raze had received an invite. He stared at the message for a long moment, the faintest smirk tugging at his lips. Sable, pulling him into a hangout with a group of high schoolers? That didn't exactly sit well, did it? But still, he couldn't ignore her. Not after their recent conversations.
-------------
Then there was Milo. She'd managed to find him, reaching out despite their brief interaction from before. The same PathFinder who'd shown concern for Fayne all those months ago. An hour train ride wasn't too far, and there was something about her message that struck a chord. If Sable wanted him there, then maybe this was worth the trip.
-----------
Sable had chosen her location carefully: a renowned autumn illumination event at a nearby park. It was the perfect blend of quiet beauty and understated significance. The sprawling grounds were adorned with vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold leaves, softly illuminated by strings of lanterns and glowing pathways.
As the sun set, the lights would come alive, creating a dreamlike atmosphere where shadows and colors danced together. The illuminated trees and reflections on the garden's koi ponds would set the perfect backdrop for this gathering.
It wasn't just a random hangout. For Sable, it was a way to quietly say goodbye—without actually saying it. This would be her way of creating one last memory for everyone, something they could hold on to after she was gone.
The symbolism wasn't lost on her. The fleeting beauty of the illuminated leaves mirrored her time here—brief, but she hoped, impactful. She didn't know if she'd have the strength to explain her true intentions to everyone by the end of the night, but this... this felt like the right way to leave her mark.
And maybe, just maybe, it would be enough.
--------------------------------------------------
Earlier that day, Fayne and Raxian's separate groups had been buzzing with speculation about Sable's sudden hangout invitation. It was rare enough for her to initiate something so openly, let alone with so little detail. All she'd sent was a location and time, leaving the rest up to their imaginations.
"What do you think it's about?" Mira asked, glancing at Leah.
"Beats me," Leah replied, shrugging. "But it's Sable, so you know it's gotta be something out of the ordinary."
Jake leaned back against a desk, crossing his arms. "Maybe she's got some big announcement? Or maybe she's finally gonna tell us where she's been."
"Doubt it," Marcus said with a snort. "She's not exactly the sharing type."
Tess frowned, looking thoughtful. "She wouldn't just do this for no reason, though. There's gotta be a purpose behind it."
"Oh, wait," Ava chimed in, her eyes lighting up. "Could it be the autumn illumination event? It's in that park, right? You've all heard of it, haven't you?"
The group exchanged glances, murmurs rippling through the room. They'd all heard of the event—its glowing trees, lantern-lit pathways, and stunning atmosphere—but none of them had ever gone before.
"That actually makes sense," Jake said, nodding. "It's the perfect spot for a group hangout."
"Yeah, but..." Mira hesitated, lowering her voice. "Doesn't it feel like... there's more to this? Like she's not telling us everything?"
In the midst of all the chatter, Fayne and Raxian sat quietly on opposite sides of the room. They weren't speculating, weren't tossing out ideas. Instead, they each wrestled silently with the same thought: There's more to this than Sable's letting on.
Raxian stared at his phone, scrolling absently through old messages. Fayne, meanwhile, fiddled with the petals of a flower she'd brought with her from work, her thoughts elsewhere entirely.
Jake noticed their quiet and raised an eyebrow. "You two are awfully quiet over there. Got something to add?"
Fayne shook her head, forcing a small smile. "Not really."
"Same," Raxian muttered, though his tone betrayed his unease.
Their silence didn't go unnoticed by the rest of the group, but no one pushed further. The unanswered question of what Sable was really planning hung in the air, unspoken but heavy, as the day moved closer to the evening's gathering.
------------------------------------------------------
Adjusting to the train schedule had meant Milo arrived earlier than the others. He found himself standing at the park's entrance, hands tucked into the pockets of his hoodie as the chill of the evening settled over him. He wasn't used to this—being part of a group hangout. Fayne had been the only person who ever really invited him to things, and even those moments were rare. It had been a while since their lives had drifted apart, her time consumed by new friends and, of course, AkarisLite—Akaris—Sable.
And now, Sable, Fayne's biggest distraction, had been the one to invite him here. The fact alone piqued his curiosity. Milo wasn't particularly social, but tonight, he'd decided to try. The idea of seeing Fayne again helped keep his nerves steady, even if the situation felt odd.
The illuminated park loomed before him, the soft glow of autumn lights creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. He didn't have to wait long before Sable appeared, her figure unmistakable even at a distance. She walked with an air of casual confidence, her black jacket draped over her shoulders, boots clinking faintly as she moved. The punk edge to her style made her stand out against the warm, rustic tones of the park's backdrop.
Milo, on the other hand, couldn't have looked more understated. A thick hoodie layered over a plain shirt, muted jeans, and sneakers that had seen better days. He wasn't trying to stand out—he never did.
As Sable approached, she hesitated for a moment. This wasn't someone she knew well, not in the way she knew Raxian or even Fayne. Their interactions had been brief, and she wasn't entirely sure how to break the ice. But Milo had shown up, and that meant something, didn't it?
"Milo," she said finally, her voice calm but edged with a trace of uncertainty. "Didn't think you'd actually come."
He looked at her, tilting his head slightly. "You invited me. Why wouldn't I?"
She gave a faint smirk, her eyes scanning his unassuming outfit. "Just doesn't seem like your thing, that's all."
"It's not," he admitted with a shrug, glancing around at the glowing trees. "But... curiosity got the better of me. And I figured I'd make an exception."
Sable's expression softened, though her posture stayed cool and composed. "Well, you're here. That's what counts."
They stood in silence for a beat, the quiet broken only by the faint rustle of leaves in the evening breeze. Milo finally nodded toward the park. "So, what's the plan? Or do we just wander around and wait for the others?"
Her smirk widened slightly. "You'll find out soon enough. Just... stick around."
Milo raised an eyebrow but didn't press further. He could sense there was more to this night than Sable was letting on, but for now, he let it be.
They walked together into the park, her bold aesthetic a stark contrast to his muted one. The difference between them was almost comical, but somehow, the balance worked. For now, the quiet between them felt natural—a tentative beginning to whatever the night would bring.
-------------------------------
As they walked through the illuminated park, Milo couldn't help but reflect on the dynamic that Sable had created. How had this girl so abruptly entered their lives, weaving herself into their stories and somehow pulling everyone together? It was strange. Fascinating, even.
Sable wasn't loud or overtly commanding, yet she effortlessly attracted attention. Her presence had an almost magnetic quality—an unspoken charisma that seemed to draw people in. Milo had seen it before, in the way Fayne talked about her, the way her name had come up in passing during late-night gaming sessions or casual conversations. And now, walking beside her, he could see it for himself.
She was cool in a way that didn't feel forced, her punk-inspired style and laid-back demeanor giving her an air of confidence that felt natural. But there was something else, too—something beneath the surface that he couldn't quite put his finger on. A vulnerability, maybe? Or just a sense that she was more than the aloof figure she presented to the world?
It was no wonder Fayne had been so captivated by her. And Raxian—TimeWrapped, as Milo had pieced together—was no different.
Figuring out Raxian's connection to Sable hadn't been hard. Milo hadn't heard his name from Fayne or Sable directly, but when Sable's text invite had casually mentioned someone named Raxian would be there, the puzzle pieces fell into place. It all made sense now: the rivalry, the tension, the unspoken dynamics between Fayne, Raxian, and Sable.
Milo glanced at Sable as they walked, her expression unreadable as she took in the glowing lights around them. He wondered if she realized just how much of an impact she'd had on the people in her orbit. Did she know how deeply she'd connected them? Or was it something she'd done without even trying?
He decided against voicing his thoughts, instead tucking his hands deeper into his hoodie pockets as they continued down the winding path. There was something about the night—the crisp air, the warm glow of the lights, the quiet camaraderie between them—that made it feel like the answers would come in their own time.
For now, Milo let himself be curious, taking in the enigma that was Sable and the strange, intertwined web of connections she'd somehow created.
-----------------------------------
Second to arrive were Logan and Ava, their figures appearing together under the warm glow of the park's entrance lights. It was clear they'd come as a pair, chatting easily with one another, their laughter soft but audible as they approached.
Unbeknownst to Milo and Sable, there was likely more to their dynamic than met the eye. Milo's gaze shifted as he caught a fleeting detail: their hands, clasped together briefly before parting as they drew closer. Did he imagine it, or was there a faint blush on Logan's cheeks when he glanced at Ava?
Milo didn't consider himself the type to notice such things, but for some reason, this small interaction stuck out. Maybe it was the way Logan's smile lingered a second too long or the quiet, easy way they walked side by side. Whatever it was, it added another layer to the night's already complex web of connections.
Sable raised an eyebrow, giving the two a nod as they arrived. "Didn't expect you two to come together," she remarked casually, though there was no judgment in her tone.
Logan shrugged, his usual nonchalant demeanor faltering just slightly under the question. "Ran into each other on the way here," he said, his voice steady, though Milo noticed his hands fidgeting briefly before slipping into his jacket pockets.
Ava smiled, her expression calm but warm. "Figured we might as well show up together. Less awkward than arriving solo, right?"
Milo watched the exchange quietly, his attention briefly flicking back to Logan, who seemed to be stealing quick glances at Ava when he thought no one was looking. It wasn't hard to read between the lines, but Milo decided to keep his observations to himself.
"Fair enough," Sable said with a faint smirk, crossing her arms. "Welcome to... whatever this is."
Ava laughed lightly. "Cryptic as ever, huh, Sable?"
Sable shrugged, her smirk widening. "Wouldn't be me otherwise."
As the four of them stood there, the night carried a faint buzz of unspoken thoughts and unacknowledged emotions. The atmosphere wasn't tense, exactly, but it felt charged—like there was more to be said than anyone was willing to admit just yet. Milo glanced between the others, wondering what the night had in store.
--------------------------------------------
Third to arrive were Bryce, Tess, and Marcus, their laughter and chatter carrying through the air as they approached. Milo glanced up, observing their dynamic as they joined the growing group. Tess and Marcus stuck close to each other, their proximity impossible to ignore.
It wasn't just Milo who noticed—everyone in the group had been aware of the obvious connection between them for a while. Jake, in particular, loved to tease them about it, always throwing playful jabs about when they'd "make it official." Yet, despite how blatantly obvious it was to everyone around them, Tess and Marcus maintained the façade of just being friends, even though their lingering glances and subtle body language told a different story.
Bryce, on the other hand, seemed perfectly content to play the role of wingman. His easygoing demeanor and quick wit made him a natural at keeping things light, often stepping in to diffuse the awkward tension Tess and Marcus occasionally created. Tonight was no exception—Bryce's jokes and casual remarks seemed designed to keep Marcus comfortable and Tess laughing, though even his efforts couldn't completely mask the underlying chemistry between them.
Sable greeted them with a smirk. "Fashionably late, as always," she said, her arms still crossed casually.
Bryce chuckled. "What can I say? We like to make an entrance."
Tess rolled her eyes playfully, but the smile tugging at her lips gave her away. "More like someone couldn't decide which jacket to wear," she teased, nudging Marcus lightly.
Marcus shrugged, a faint blush creeping up his neck. "It's cold. Gotta be practical."
"Sure," Bryce said with a grin. "Practical. Let's call it that."
Milo watched the exchange with quiet amusement, noting the way Marcus's eyes darted to Tess even as he tried to keep his tone casual. Tess, for her part, seemed to enjoy the attention, her smile lingering just a little longer than necessary.
"Alright," Sable said, cutting in before the teasing could go any further. "You're here. That's what matters." She gave Bryce a knowing look. "You keeping these two in line?"
"Always," Bryce replied smoothly, flashing a grin.
As the group settled in, Milo couldn't help but reflect on the intricate dynamics at play. Between Tess and Marcus's not-so-subtle connection and Bryce's effortless charm, it was clear this was a group that thrived on banter and camaraderie. Still, there was an unspoken weight in the air, as if everyone was waiting for the real reason behind Sable's invitation to reveal itself.
------------------------------------
Fayne, Leah, and Mira appeared shortly after, their hurried steps echoing as they approached the group. Leah was the first to speak, her voice carrying a mix of apology and embarrassment.
"Sorry!" Leah blurted, waving a hand as if to brush off their tardiness.
Mira chimed in quickly, adjusting the strap of her bag. "A little too time optimistic today!"
Fayne remained quiet, still catching her breath. Her gaze shifted around the group, finally landing on Sable and then Milo. Her expression wavered slightly, as if caught off guard. Milo, noticing her gaze, hesitated. He wasn't quite sure how to approach her, their dynamic having shifted since the last time they spoke.
Sable, on the other hand, kept her composure, her usual cool demeanor intact. She offered a small wave to the trio. "You made it. That's what matters," she said simply, her tone even.
Leah smiled sheepishly, brushing some hair from her face. "Yeah, but still. We didn't want to miss this... whatever this is." She glanced between Sable and the others, clearly curious about the reason for the gathering.
Mira elbowed Leah lightly. "Hey, at least we're not the last ones here, right?" she joked, her tone light, though her eyes darted to Fayne, who still hadn't said a word.
Fayne seemed to finally find her voice, though it came out softer than usual. "Sorry. It's been... a busy day." She avoided Sable's gaze, her attention flicking briefly to Milo again before settling on the ground.
Milo shifted awkwardly, his hands tucked into his hoodie pockets. He wanted to say something, but the moment felt too delicate to interrupt. Instead, he glanced at Sable, who seemed to sense the tension but chose not to address it directly.
"Alright, then," Sable said, clapping her hands together lightly. "Looks like we're just about set. Let's wait for the rest and then... we'll get this thing started."
The air hung heavy with unspoken thoughts, the undercurrents of past interactions and unresolved emotions making the group dynamic all the more complex. Fayne kept her distance, standing closer to Leah and Mira while occasionally stealing glances at Sable and Milo. Milo, meanwhile, couldn't help but wonder if the night ahead would provide some clarity—or just add more layers to an already tangled web.
-----------------------
Raxian, Jake, and Ethan were about the last to arrive, their dynamic as chaotic as ever. Jake, brimming with his usual excitement, had somehow managed to drag out their time.
"Come on, we'll get there in time! It's fine," Jake had said earlier, waving off Ethan's protests as he lingered to check out a street vendor selling trinkets.
Ethan, on the other hand, had been less than amused. "We don't have time for this, Jake!" he had snapped, his patience clearly running thin.
That was when Raxian, already restless, had decided he'd had enough. Without saying much, he had started walking off on his own, his steps purposeful as he headed toward the park.
"Hey, hey, wait up!" Jake had called after him, finally abandoning whatever had caught his attention. He jogged to catch up with Raxian, his carefree grin faltering slightly as he noticed the tension in his friend's demeanor. "Don't leave me behind, man! I was just messing around."
Ethan, still visibly annoyed, sighed heavily before running to join them, muttering something under his breath about "never getting anywhere on time with Jake."
By the time the three of them arrived at the park, the group was mostly gathered, the faint buzz of conversation filling the air. Jake immediately tried to lighten the mood, throwing out a casual, "Sorry for the delay, folks! Blame me. I'm the worst at keeping track of time."
Ethan rolled his eyes but didn't bother saying anything, instead taking in the crowd. Raxian, meanwhile, scanned the group, his gaze eventually landing on Sable. She stood a little off to the side, her arms crossed and her usual cool expression in place. For a moment, their eyes met, and Raxian felt a flicker of uncertainty.
Sable gave a small nod in acknowledgment but said nothing. Jake and Ethan joined the group seamlessly, chatting easily with those nearby. Raxian, however, lingered for a moment, his hands shoved into his pockets as he tried to sort through his own thoughts.
He wasn't sure what he was expecting tonight, but something about the gathering felt... significant. And if anyone had the answers, it was Sable.
-------------------------------------------------
"Well, seems like the whole group is gathered, right?" Jake shouted, his voice cutting through the soft murmur of conversation. "Let's get this thing started!"
But before anyone could respond, Sable raised a hand, her expression calm but firm. "Not just yet," she said, her voice carrying enough weight to make everyone pause.
The group exchanged uncertain glances, their excitement giving way to confusion. "You mean that's not all?" Tess questioned, looking around as if trying to figure out who could possibly still be missing.
"We're still missing one person," Sable insisted, her tone leaving no room for debate.
Milo glanced at Fayne, their eyes meeting briefly. Of course. Akaris, TimeWrapped, BlossomWisp, PathFinder... that only left one person who could round out the web of connections: RazeFlicker.
Milo's thoughts churned. He didn't know who RazeFlicker was personally, but the name carried weight in the stories he'd pieced together. If RazeFlicker had played a significant role in Sable's life, it made sense that she'd invite him tonight. Milo's gaze flickered to Raxian, who remained unusually quiet, his expression unreadable.
Raxian's silence wasn't lost on Milo—or Fayne, for that matter. For Raxian, the realization struck harder than expected. He hadn't thought Sable would invite Raze. Sure, he'd introduced them to each other, and they'd hit it off well enough, but... how close had they gotten? What had Raze meant to Sable that made her include him in such a personal moment?
Jake, oblivious to the undercurrent of tension, was the first to break the silence. "Alright, so we're waiting on one more. Cool. Any idea where they are?"
Sable shook her head, glancing at her phone. "I told him where to meet us. He should be here soon."
The air grew heavier, the group shifting uncomfortably. It wasn't just about waiting—it was about the unspoken questions lingering between them. What role did Raze play in all of this?
Raxian kept his thoughts to himself, but his mind raced. RazeFlicker had been his gaming buddy for years, someone he respected and trusted. But now, with Sable... it felt different. Was he overthinking it? Or was there more to their connection than he realized?
Fayne, sensing the tension in Raxian's posture, glanced at him briefly but chose not to comment. Her focus remained on Sable, curiosity mingling with a faint sense of unease. What exactly was Sable planning by bringing everyone together like this—and why did it feel like every piece of the puzzle was about to fall into place?
---------------------------------------
The group lingered in anticipation, the cool evening air filled with murmurs of speculation. They hadn't been waiting long when a figure approached—casual, unhurried, exuding an air of effortless confidence. At first glance, the group dismissed him as another passerby, a college student enjoying the autumn illumination event. But then, his sharp teal-green eyes scanned the group, and he strolled straight toward them.
"Rax, my man!" he called out with a wide grin, ruffling Raxian's hair like it was the most natural thing in the world.
Raxian immediately recoiled, swatting his hand away. "Knock it off, Raze," he muttered, his usual composed demeanor cracking for a brief moment.
The group exchanged glances, a mix of confusion and curiosity swirling among them. The familiarity between Raxian and this newcomer was undeniable, the use of the nickname "Rax" cementing their connection. But how close were they, really? And why hadn't Raxian mentioned him before?
"Who's this guy?" Jake whispered loudly enough for the group to hear, leaning toward Marcus, who only shrugged, equally intrigued.
Leah squinted at the two of them. "Is he... related to Raxian? They kind of look alike, don't they?"
"Sort of," Mira chimed in, tilting her head. "Like... maybe an older brother?"
"But Raxian's never mentioned having an older brother," Logan pointed out, his tone skeptical.
"Exactly," Tess added, her gaze sharp. "So who is he?"
Jake, always eager to stir the pot, grinned as he stepped closer to Raxian. "Yo, Rax, you've been holding out on us? Didn't know you had a cool older brother!"
Raxian groaned, clearly exasperated. "He's not my brother, okay? Just drop it."
"Not his brother," Raze repeated with a laugh, stuffing his hands into his jacket pockets. "But close enough, I guess. Don't overthink it, kids."
The group fell silent, though their curiosity remained palpable. Raze's laid-back demeanor contrasted starkly with Raxian's more guarded presence, yet the ease with which they interacted hinted at a long-standing bond. As Raze's gaze swept over the group, it landed on Sable.
"Well, well," he said, his tone teasing. "Quite the entourage you've gathered, Sable. Didn't peg you for the 'big group hangout' type."
Sable raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at her lips. "There's a lot you don't know about me, Raze."
Even Fayne couldn't help but notice the familiarity between Raze and Sable. Her eyes flicked between the two, her expression unreadable. Meanwhile, the rest of the group stood in quiet fascination, trying to piece together the dynamics at play.
"So," Raze said, addressing the group as a whole, "am I the last one to show up, or is there some grand entrance I just ruined?"
Jake, never one to miss an opportunity, stepped forward with a grin. "You're it, man. Now that you're here, we can finally get started, right, Sable?"
Sable nodded, her usual confident air tinged with something softer, more introspective. As the group began to move deeper into the park, the soft glow of the illuminated trees casting warm hues over their path, the unspoken question hung in the air: Who exactly was Raze, and how did he fit into all of this?
-----------------------
So, this was it then. It wasn't some grand, elaborate gesture, but it didn't need to be. Sable had brought everyone here for a reason, a quiet sort of purpose that didn't need fanfare. Under the glow of the illuminated autumn leaves, with the cool breeze whispering promises of winter's arrival, this felt... fitting. A moment she wanted them all to witness together.
The thought wasn't entirely polished—she wasn't one for grand speeches or deep philosophical musings. But still, there was something about the way the autumn air seemed to linger, almost hesitant to give way to the cold grasp of winter. It mirrored the moment she found herself in. Change was inevitable, unavoidable, but it didn't mean she couldn't take a moment to mark its significance.
The group's chatter had quieted as they wandered the winding park paths, the warm glow of lantern-lit trees softening their features. Everyone seemed to sense it—that this wasn't just another casual hangout. Even Jake, ever the loud one, had stopped cracking jokes, falling into step with the contemplative mood Sable had set.
She took a breath, her fingers brushing against the edge of her jacket pocket. "Alright," she said, stopping near a clearing where the lights reflected off a small pond. The ripples in the water danced with gold and red, the trees above swaying gently in the cool breeze. Everyone turned to face her, their expressions a mix of curiosity and quiet anticipation.
"It's not exactly my style to get all... sentimental," she started, her voice steady but carrying the weight of something unsaid. "But tonight isn't just about hanging out. I brought you all here because... well, I thought it was important. Before everything changes."
Her words hung in the air, the group exchanging glances but remaining silent. Sable shifted slightly, her boots crunching against the fallen leaves beneath her feet. "I'm not great with words, but I wanted you all to know... how much this has meant to me. All of you. Being here. Meeting you. It's something I'll never forget."
Fayne's eyes flickered with recognition, her gaze softening. Raxian crossed his arms, his expression unreadable but his attention fully on her. Even Raze, leaning casually against a nearby tree, had stilled, his usual smirk replaced with something quieter.
Sable looked around at the faces that had somehow become more familiar, more important, than she ever thought possible. "Life has a funny way of throwing things together, doesn't it?" she said with a wry smile. "But it's also pretty good at pulling them apart."
The cold breeze swept through, rustling the leaves above and tugging at her hair. She tightened her jacket around herself, the action almost instinctive. "I guess what I'm trying to say is... thank you. For everything. For being here, for putting up with me, for... making this place feel like home, even if just for a little while."
Her voice faltered slightly, but she caught herself, straightening her posture. "I don't know what the future holds, but I'll carry this with me. All of it. All of you."
For a moment, no one spoke, the weight of her words settling over the group like the falling leaves. Then, slowly, Raze stepped forward, his hands tucked into his pockets. "You've got a funny way of saying goodbye, Sable," he said, his tone light but his expression thoughtful. "But I think we get it."
Jake broke the silence with a laugh, though it was quieter than usual. "Leave it to you to make a farewell party sound like a philosophy lecture."
That earned a few chuckles from the group, the tension easing just slightly. Sable smiled faintly, letting the sound wash over her. This was it. Her final confession before the winds of change took her somewhere new, somewhere unknown. It wasn't perfect, but it was hers. And that was enough.
------------------------------------------------
So... that was really it, then? Sable didn't have to spell it out for the realization to hit. This truly was her final goodbye, wasn't it? None of them had probably expected this from her. If anything, it seemed more in line with her nature to disappear without a trace, leaving only questions in her wake. But here she was, standing under the illuminated autumn sky, making a gesture that none of them would forget. It was subtle, understated—just like her—but it carried a weight that lingered.
The group didn't need to exchange words to understand what was happening. The atmosphere spoke for itself. The laughter that broke through the earlier tension was quieter now, tinged with a bittersweetness none of them could shake. They knew what this moment meant, even if it hadn't been explicitly stated.
For Raxian, it hit differently. His mind kept circling back to the unread message he'd sent her weeks ago. It wasn't like Sable to leave him hanging for so long. But later that evening, as he sat alone in his room with his phone in hand, the notification finally came. The familiar chime startled him out of his thoughts, and his eyes darted to the screen.
Her reply.
Sable: If we never see each other again, we can still keep in touch online, right, TimeWrapped? And who knows, maybe we will cross paths again in real life too. But for now, thanks for everything. I will miss it. I will miss you. Every single one of you.
Raxian stared at the message for a long moment, the weight of her words sinking in. He read it over and over, his grip tightening on the phone. She was really leaving. This wasn't just another one of her phases or a temporary withdrawal. This was it.
A part of him wanted to reply immediately, to say something—anything—that would convince her to stay, to fight against the inevitable. But another part of him knew that this wasn't something he could stop. This was Sable's choice, her path, and no matter how much he wanted to hold on, he couldn't.
Finally, he typed a response, his fingers lingering over the keys as he chose his words carefully.
Raxian: You'll miss us? Sable, you'll always be one of us, no matter where you go. And yeah... maybe our paths will cross again. Until then, don't be a stranger online. We'll all be waiting for you.
He hit send and stared at the screen, half-expecting another message, but none came. Instead, he set the phone down, leaning back in his chair and staring up at the ceiling. It wasn't the ending he wanted, but at least this time, it wasn't a question mark. Sable had given them something to hold onto, a memory to carry with them, and in her own way, she'd said goodbye.
That was Sable—always leaving her mark, even as she walked away.