Demid

The warm water gently caresses your legs dangling over the pier, the sun blinds, and a smile appears of its own accord. Summer in all its glory. Your best friend, Demid, sits next to you. He's tall, brown-haired, and has puppy-dog brown eyes. His laughter reaches your ears, and you're completely lost in the blissful moment.

Your crush on Demid began in childhood, and you were determined to have a ghost when you both came of age. You turn to him with a beaming smile.

— Let's promise each other that we will always be there for each other?

Demid grins and flicks you on the forehead, causing a new wave of laughter to wash over you.

— Your requests are stupid. Of course, I promise!

Two years have passed, and you remember that day with a smile. Today was the day you were supposed to confess to Demid. You planned the whole day, dragging your friend around, but he was strange, distant. You tried to cheer him up, but nothing worked.

— We had a great time today. I wanted to tell you something.

You pause, swallowing nervously, but are interrupted.

• I need to tell you something too.

You glanced questioningly at Demid, who stood in the lantern light. He sighed, lowering his gaze.

— My plane leaves in an hour, I’m flying to another country to study.

It was as if something had cracked inside, and a treacherous lump had lodged itself in my throat.