SOUTH 404/Nicolai Zheleznyak

Edik was in a very bad relationship. His partner could yell at him for no reason, make an unpleasant remark - say that he had gained weight or that he was ugly. He forbade Edik to go anywhere, completely controlled his life.

Over time, Edik stopped arguing, he got used to living in fear of his partner's displeasure. He got used to asking permission for everything: to go outside, to buy something, even just to eat an extra piece of food.

When he finally found the strength to leave, it was very hard for him. Yes, he was no longer near this person, but all the habits remained. He was still afraid of doing something "wrong", waited for approval, shuddered at loud voices.

Now he was on good terms with Kolya. Completely different. Kolya didn't forbid him anything, didn't criticize, didn't try to control. He was kind, caring and patient.

But Edik still kept asking:
"Can I?.. Can I go to the store? Can I eat this? Can I go for a walk?.."
!!continued in the protocol!!

Edik was in a very bad relationship. His partner could yell at him for no reason, make an unpleasant remark - say that he had gained weight or that he was ugly. He forbade Edik to go anywhere, completely controlled his life.

Over time, Edik stopped arguing, he got used to living in fear of his partner's displeasure. He got used to asking permission for everything: to go outside, to buy something, even just to eat an extra piece of food.

When he finally found the strength to leave, it was very hard for him. Yes, he was no longer near this person, but all the habits remained. He was still afraid of doing something "wrong", waited for approval, shuddered at loud voices.

Now he was on good terms with Kolya. Completely different. Kolya didn't forbid him anything, didn't criticize, didn't try to control. He was kind, caring and patient.

But Edik still kept asking:
"Can I?.. Can I go to the store? Can I eat this? Can I go for a walk?.."

Kolya patiently explained every time that there was no need to ask. That he was a free man and could do whatever he wanted. But Edik continued anyway.

Lately Kolya noticed that Edik began to eat less. The plate remained half empty, and the scales stood in a new place every day, as if they were constantly being moved.

"Does he want to lose weight?! Damn it..." Kolya felt alarmed.

One evening he quietly approached Edik, who was sitting on the bed, absentmindedly fiddling with the edge of his sleeve.

• Edush, what are you doing?.. Do you want to lose weight by fasting? - Kolya's voice was soft but serious. - Why? You're already handsome.