The day after the typhoon had passed.
As I stepped onto the station platform and slipped in my earphones, a crisp, dry wind swept through, stealing the warmth from my skin.
The sound of cicadas filled the air.
I reached into my closet, pulling out a long-forgotten floral dress—big, bold blossoms against soft fabric.
Slipping it on, I switched my earphones to noise cancellation.
At the meeting spot, my friend was already waiting.
“The breeze feels so nice today,” they said.
“Let’s get ice cream,” I suggested.
"Yeah, it’s hot. Let’s find a place."
They started searching for an ice cream shop.
Eating ice cream outside in the summer is a battle against time.
From beside me, a voice laughed, “You better eat fast before it melts.”
I took a bite from the part already surrendering to the heat.
Even a melting summer ice cream—
I wanted to savor it.
On the way home, the wind had cooled.
Tonight, I wouldn’t need the air conditioner to sleep.
Maybe this dress will carry me into autumn, too.
Wearing what I want, in the fleeting moments I have—
Before I forget.


