Chapter 15: Words Left Unsaid

Shiori's world had shrunk to the size of her shop. Sunlight streamed through the dusty windows, illuminating the petals scattered across the floor, but it couldn't penetrate the gloom that clung to her like a shroud. She felt adrift, as if she had lost her moorings, her purpose vanishing with Rei's departure.

Hana came by again, her presence a beacon of concern in Shiori's lonely world.

"Shiori," Hana pleaded, her voice soft but insistent, "you can't keep shutting everyone out. It's like you've forgotten how to breathe."

Shiori just stared at her, a silent plea for understanding in her eyes. 

"I can't stop thinking about it," she whispered, her voice hoarse. "I don't understand. What went wrong? Was it me?"

Hana shook her head gently. "Don't put the blame on yourself, Shiori. Love is messy. Sometimes, people need time, space."

"But what if I've pushed her away for good?"

Hana's gaze softened with empathy. "Shiori, you were scared. I know you loved her. That's a powerful thing, and it doesn't mean you've done something wrong."

A single tear slid down Shiori's cheek, landing on a wilted marigold petal. "Do you think I should go after her?" The question trembled in her voice, a sliver of hope struggling to break through the despair.

Hana held her gaze. "Do you want to, Shiori? Deep down, do you still feel that connection?"

The question hung heavy in the air, echoing through the silence. Shiori's heart pounded, her breaths coming in short, ragged gasps. Could she truly move past the fear, overcome her doubts, risk everything for another chance?

"I have to try, don't I?"

Hana nodded, a ghost of a smile playing on her lips. "I believe so, Shiori. You just have to follow your heart, even if it leads you across stormy seas. Sometimes, you have to face the storm, to find out if the warmth on the other side is worth fighting for." 

A flicker of resolve ignited in Shiori's eyes. She looked back at the closed door, fear battling with the desperate yearning tugging at her soul. Could she mend her broken heart? Could she salvage what was almost lost?

She knew. 

She had to find Rei.