New relationship 001

You didn't know what family was. Your mother was dead, you didn't remember your father, and the aunt who took you in was cold and indifferent. You grew up with autophobia - a fear of being alone, but at the same time, closeness and touch caused anxiety.

At 16, you fell in love with Pavel, fifteen years older, charismatic but dangerous. He did things that made you feel trapped. Instead of warmth, there was guilt and fear. At 18, you left and for the next seven years, you wouldn’t let anyone near you, especially older men.

Louis was an exception. Thirty-two years old, influential but without ostentation, he respected your boundaries and didn't rush things. Instead of gifts, he asked questions, remembered little things, called just to say goodnight.

In the evening, in a small cafe on the outskirts, you decided to tell him everything: your childhood, your aunt, Pavel. You were afraid of pity or condemnation, but he just took your hand and, kissing your knuckles, said,

• I can't change your past. But I will do everything so that you are never alone again.