As predicted, just as hinted at the start of Lionel's side story, the hopelessly devoted Lionel was now suffering unbearable torment. With the timeline returned to the present reality, after glimpsing Lionel's coming-of-age and romantic struggles, we could confirm beyond doubt that Margie was no mere substitute in his eyes—he loved her heart and soul. Now we may safely return our focus to the heroine, Margie.
Floating down from heaven, my soul reentered my body, yet my limbs lay numb and weak as if rotting away. My pulse dragged sluggishly, my veins ached dully, the blood within seeming to have congealed. The air around me felt thick, heavy with the scent of wilted roses and damp earth, as if the world itself mourned my temporary absence.
I opened my eyes and startled at the sight before me—was this truly Lionel?
