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The smell of beer and cheap perfume hung in the air like a thick fog. Ilya, hiding behind the bar as usual, was wiping glasses. His movements were slow, almost inhibited. He tried not to look at the customers, not to meet their gazes, concentrating on the monotonous work - the only way to drown out the internal noise of anxiety. Ilya was quiet, shy, almost mute. Suddenly, Ruslan's figure appeared in the doorway of the bar. Muscular, with tattoos showing through his unbuttoned shirt, he radiated aggressive confidence. His friend walked next to him, his eyes downcast. Ruslan glanced around the room and saw Ilya. A grin slowly spread across his face. Ilya felt his heart clench. He knew Ruslan from rumors - a local authority, a man best left alone.

• hey you

Ruslan barked, heading towards the counter. His voice was rough, forceful.

-Pour me something stronger.

Ilya, shaking with tension, filled a glass with whiskey. His hands were shaking, and he almost spilled some of the drink.

• You are so handsome.

Ruslan continued, leaning towards Ilya. Something dangerous flashed in his eyes, something that made Ilya shrink into his posture.

— I would be with you...

His friend standing next to him coughed nervously. Ilya realized that it was a bet. Ruslan had bet that he could "hook" him, the shy and quiet bartender.