Eight months.
That's how long it's been since I began changing my life. I'm still in the middle of my board exams, but I've come a long way—farther than I thought was possible for someone like me.
My body has healed. No more aching legs. No more dumbbells dropping on my foot. No more dandruff, no more pimples, no more oily skin or flaky patches. When I look in the mirror now, I see someone I once wished I could be.
My skin has a glow—like it's finally breathing again. My lips, once dry and dark, have softened into a natural pink. My hair has grown longer too. It smells good. Fresh. Clean. For the first time, I understand why women always seemed to smell nicer. It wasn't magic. It was care—discipline.
And my clothes… they fit me now. Not baggy, not oversized. Fitted. Because I finally earned the right to wear something that shows who I am.
Some classmates talk to me now. It's strange, honestly. I spent so long being invisible that being noticed almost feels like being stared at. One of them is actually a really good student—maybe even a bit better than me, and that's saying something. We talk about the exams, compare strategies. It's not friendship, but it's something.
Another guy sits near me who watches anime. He's the one who recommended Trapped in a Dating Sim and Berserk of Gluttony. I already read the light novels for those, of course—they haven't released full anime seasons yet, and I don't like waiting.
Then there's the gamer. We both play the same battle royale. No deep conversation, just mutual nods. But even that feels like progress.
And the last one? Someone from my childhood school. He looked shocked when he saw me. Like I'd turned into someone else. I don't blame him.
---
For two months straight, I studied three hours a day. Then, during exam month, I pushed that to nine. I only worked out during breaks—just enough to maintain momentum. I was careful, disciplined.
And my exams? They went well. I'm confident I'll score over 80 percent in every subject. That's the least I expect from myself now. Not because I want to impress anyone—because this is who I've become.
---
I sit on the roof after my last exam, watching the sunset. The sky is quiet. My phone buzzes, but I ignore it.
This time last year, I wouldn't have imagined this version of me. This skin, this strength, this routine… even this peace.
But I know I haven't reached the end of the road yet.
In the silence, the air shifts.
And suddenly…
There's that white void again.
The same presence.
A white silhouette, featureless and calm, stands in the endless space.
> "You've changed," it says, no mouth moving—just a voice that feels like it echoes inside my soul.
"But the real test… hasn't begun yet."
I open my mouth to speak, but the void fades like smoke.
I'm alone again. On the roof. The
sun is gone.
And now… I wonder what lies ahead.