Regression of a Star

Haruki's morning began with a restless energy he couldn't shake. The note from the night of the festival lingered in his mind like a dark cloud. The words were simple but chilling, a reminder that his past wasn't as distant as he had hoped.

As he sipped his coffee, Aya entered the room, her cheerful demeanor a stark contrast to Haruki's somber mood. "You've been quiet all morning. Something on your mind?"

He hesitated. Aya had been a constant source of encouragement, but this wasn't something he could share lightly. Instead, he forced a smile. "Just thinking about the next project. There's a lot to prepare."

Aya raised an eyebrow, unconvinced, but didn't push further. "Well, don't overthink it. You've been doing great so far. Let's focus on what's next."

Her optimism was infectious, and for a moment, Haruki let himself believe that he could move past the lingering threat.

The New Script

Later that day, Haruki received a call from one of his favorite independent directors, Yumi Tanaka. She had sent him a script for a new project—a psychological drama about a man haunted by his choices. The premise hit uncomfortably close to home, but Haruki couldn't deny the allure of the role.

"This role is challenging," Yumi said over the phone. "It's raw, emotional, and it'll push you to your limits. But I think it's perfect for you."

"I'm intrigued," Haruki replied, flipping through the script. The character's internal struggles mirrored his own in unsettling ways. "When do we start?"

"Filming begins next month. Take some time to prepare. I have no doubt you'll bring this character to life."

As he hung up, Haruki couldn't help but feel that this role was more than just another project—it was an opportunity to confront his own demons.

The Man in the Shadows

That evening, Haruki decided to clear his head with a walk. The streets were quiet, the city's usual chaos replaced by a tranquil stillness. But as he turned a corner, he felt it again—that prickling sensation of being watched.

His steps slowed, his instincts on high alert. He scanned the area, but the street appeared empty. Still, the feeling wouldn't leave him.

Then he saw him.

The man from the festival was leaning casually against a lamppost, his eyes fixed on Haruki. This time, there was no disappearing into the crowd.

"Who are you?" Haruki demanded, his voice steady despite the unease creeping into his chest.

The man smirked, pushing off the lamppost and taking a step closer. "Just someone who remembers the real you. You've changed, Haruki. But not everyone is so quick to forget."

Haruki clenched his fists. "If you have something to say, say it. Otherwise, stop following me."

The man chuckled. "Oh, I have plenty to say. But not here, not now. Let's just say I'm curious to see how far you can run before the truth catches up."

With that, he turned and disappeared into the shadows, leaving Haruki standing alone, his mind racing with questions.

A Growing Threat

Back at his apartment, Haruki couldn't shake the encounter. He locked the doors and double-checked the windows, his usual routine suddenly feeling inadequate.

Pulling out his phone, he hesitated before dialing a familiar number. When the line connected, a familiar voice greeted him.

"Kaito here. What's up, Haruki?"

"Kaito," Haruki began, his voice low. "I need to know something. Is there anyone from my past who might have a reason to… resurface?"

Kaito paused, the silence on the line heavy with unspoken thoughts. "Why do you ask? Did something happen?"

Haruki hesitated. "Let's just say I've had some strange encounters lately. I need to know if there's something I should be worried about."

There was a long pause before Kaito replied, his tone cautious. "Haruki, you know as well as I do that fame leaves scars. There are people who might not be happy about the choices you've made—jealous rivals, old grudges. But if someone's actively targeting you…"

He trailed off, and Haruki knew he wasn't getting a straight answer.

"Just keep your eyes open," Kaito added. "And if things get worse, let me know."

Haruki hung up, his unease deepening. He had tried to leave his past behind, but it seemed determined to find him.

The Resolve

As the night wore on, Haruki sat alone in his apartment, staring at the script Yumi had sent him. The character's struggles mirrored his own too closely for comfort, but maybe that was why he needed to take the role.

If the past wants to haunt me, then so be it, he thought. I'll face it head-on, on my own terms.

With renewed determination, he picked up the script and began to immerse himself in the story. Whatever shadows loomed in his life, Haruki was ready to confront them—not as the man he used to be, but as the person he was becoming.