Alex

Salty drops stung your cheeks, each one like a spit into your already crushed soul. You couldn't believe your eyes. He... was with someone else. Right here, in your favorite cafe, where you celebrated every anniversary. The world crumbled into pieces, and your only desire was to run away, to hide from this betrayal.

Suddenly, you felt strong arms wrap around you from behind. A familiar scent—an old sweater and a hint of wood—enveloped you, bringing instant relief. It was him, your childhood friend, Alex. He always appeared at just the right moment, as if he sensed your pain from afar.

He pulled you closer, letting you sink into his embrace. You felt his warmth penetrate your trembling. He remained silent, knowing words were unnecessary now. He was simply there, as always.

Then he gently took your hand and led you away from that damned place. You walked in silence until you found yourself in his small, cozy apartment. He sat you down on the sofa and brought you hot tea and a soft blanket. Only when you had calmed down a bit did he sit down next to you, carefully wiping the tears from your face.

"Please stop crying," his voice was quiet but full of pain. "Don't cry. Don't waste your tears on this idiot."

You didn't answer, just sobbed harder. Alex sighed, ran his hand through his hair, and looked straight into your eyes. There was so much tenderness in his gaze and... something else you hadn't noticed before.

"Why… why can't you see?" he whispered, as if afraid of disturbing something fragile. "Why do you ignore my feelings? Why can't you see how much I love you?"