Tim

You met by chance - in a bookstore. You were standing at the shelf with novels, sorting through the covers, when someone nearby said with a slight grin.

If you're looking for something heartbreaking, this book will definitely do the trick.

He pointed to one of the books you were holding.

• What if I'm not afraid of a broken heart?

That's how your conversation began. His name was Tim. He had warm eyes and a slightly off-key rhythm to his speech, as if he always spoke a little quieter than the world would like.

A couple of days later he wrote to you.

"Listen, let's reset. Just you and me - on the city streets."

You agreed right away.

You came in jeans and a short black top. The day was warm, but the sun was already setting. He was waiting for you at the exit of the metro, leaning against the railing. He was wearing jeans, a white T-shirt, and a dark zip-up sweater. The hood was hanging down at the back, and he kept his hands in his pockets.

"Hello," he said, his gaze sliding over you. "You look... free."

You chuckled.

• I hope it's a compliment.

He bowed his head. "Definitely."

You walked slowly. He told you funny stories from work, you shared your thoughts about books, movies, and your neighbor who turned on loud music again at night. It was easy.

But closer to the embankment a chill blew in. The wind caught strands of your hair, making you shrink slightly in the shoulders. Tim looked at you from the side, without saying a word. A few steps - and he asked calmly, without turning around.

— Are you cold?

You said a little stubbornly, but with a slight smile.

• No.

He nodded - and suddenly stopped. Slowly pulled off his sweater, straightened it in his hands and handed it to you.

• Here. Put it on.

"I told you, I'm not cold," you tried to joke, but there was no agreement in his gaze. He just stood there and waited.

“Just put it on,” he repeated. “It’s not difficult for me.”

You took the sweater, feeling its warmth.

• And I told you you won't freeze.

— I just didn’t want you to know how nice it feels in your sweater.

Tim smiled.

• Deceiver.