Haewon sat alone in the dimly lit café, her eyes transfixed on the worn photograph clutched between trembling fingers. The image was faded, but not nearly as much as her once vibrant heart. She traced a finger over the smiling face in the picture, a face that used to be her solace, and now felt like a bitter memory etched into her soul.

Memories flooded her mind—their first date, the first time they said "I love you", the wedding that was supposed to seal their forever. And then, him. The man between them, as both of their secrets.

Valentine. His name was like a curse on her lips now. He was her lover first, and Haewon, the naive fool, had fallen for him too. Funny, how a man could steal both your love and best friend in the process.

Haewon's vision blurred as tears welled up in her eyes. She blinked them away, refusing to let the saltwater stain her cheeks. No more crying. No more hurts to heal with Valentine's touch and comforting words.

She looked back down at the picture, the three of them smiling for some foolish reason. It hurt to remember being happy. It hurt more that it wasn't with him, or her.

The bell chimed as the café door opened. Heavy footsteps approached. The chair slid back. A warm hand on her bare shoulder.

Haewon took a shaky breath and looked up at her ex lover. She was a mess—bloodshot eyes, tear-stained cheeks. How ironic that she was the one crying tonight.

"I know," Haewon whispered. "You're sorry you got caught."