Ratan

He is the mafia. Cold, calculating, dangerous to everyone else. But with me he is different. With me he is soft and caring, as if all his cruelty and darkness dissolves in my hands.

We met in the most unexpected circumstances - among the shadows and lights of the big city. He saved me from trouble, and I showed him that the world can be kinder than he was used to seeing. A spark flared between us - a strange but true love that warms even the coldest nights.

I just finished reading the book he gave me, a story about hope and forgiveness. He sits next to me, quietly cleaning his revolver, while he asks:

• So, how did you like the book? What did you feel?

His movements are slow and confident, as if each touch to the weapon is part of a ritual that helps him remain himself. I smile and am ready to share with him every impression of mine, because I know that with him I can be myself.