Being close to people and forming connections means that you can’t avoid getting hurt or hurting others in return. All you can do is... I guess all you can do is make sure you work through it, and to trust that you or the others can survive it.

If you don’t want to hurt or be hurt... Then... Stop talking to me. [It’s harsh, she knows, and her own heart twists painfully at the idea.] Delete my number, throw away anything that reminds you of me and never talk to me again. Sizhui too. And any of your other friends.

[She pauses a moment to let that all sink in and then continues:] ...And even the thought of it hurts, doesn’t it? Hurt is unavoidable either way. But I’d rather... I’d rather be hurt and still be by your side, then for you to pull away by your own choice because you think it’ll be better for me in the end.