Hortus Arcanus planēta

ACT 2

Lope

I decided to visit Lopé’s room next door. I thought it would be better to greet her properly first, so I called out, “Excuse me for intruding,” before stepping inside.

Lopé was sitting at her desk with her head lowered. As I moved closer, I noticed she was reading what looked like a letter. Her face looked as though she might burst into tears at any moment, and deep wrinkles had formed between her brows, as if she were desperately suppressing some bitter pain.

The contents of the letter were something like this:

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To Ella,

Hello. It’s Johnny, the one who was in the same class as you. I know this sudden letter might frighten you, but I fell in love with you at first sight. I really think it was love at first sight. And those feelings have never changed.

It may be strange to say this now, right at graduation, but if possible, I would like to go out with you. If I don’t receive a reply from you, I intend to give up gracefully.

I hope this letter reaches you, and I’ll be waiting for your answer.

From Johnny, who is thinking of you.

---

The handwriting in the letter was slightly messy, carrying the awkward maturity of a child trying their very best to write like an adult.

It was a confession letter from a boy named Johnny to Ella.

But what troubled me more was why Lopé had Ella’s letter in the first place.

I see.

This is only my speculation, but perhaps this was the very reason Lopé bullied Ella.

Lopé continued staring at the letter for a while. Then, very quietly, she opened the desk drawer and pushed the letter deep inside before shutting it with a sharp click of the lock.

I should come back another time.

Carving that thought firmly into my heart, I whispered, “Thank you for having me,” and quietly left the room.