I'm genuinely proud of what this story became—more accurately, what I shaped it into. This is one of the first projects I've written entirely from scratch, without leaning on any prior reference.
Writing this made me happy in a way I hadn't felt before—as though I was finally stepping into the world I always wanted to be in.
The narrative style I used is a blend of prose-like introspective monologue and metafiction. Because of that, I had to make sure everything meant something. Descriptions had to carry weight, and emotions needed to be felt even without using conventional words.
This style is entirely inspired by NISIOISIN. I find it an extraordinary way of storytelling—where every pause, misdirection, or digression becomes part of the meaning itself.
As for the story itself, it's an open book. You, the reader, are free to conclude it however you like. Just like how the ghost didn't believe in endings, I've left this story open too.
Finally, I want to thank each and every one of you who made it to the end and supported this short story. Thank you for motivating me.
I hope to see you again in another story.
Until then, stay safe… and maybe take a second look behind that vending machine.
After all—Tuesdays have a funny way of finding you.