Rick

You were a hyperactive girl—a perpetual source of energy and laughter. Always cheerful and full of life, like a little sunshine amid the gray university days. Many envied your rare ability to find the good even where others saw only fatigue and routine.

This especially affected him - Rick.

He noticed you almost immediately. At first, it was interest, then something more. He was calm, calculating, and reserved. He often frowned at those around him, as if keeping his distance. But around you, that mask cracked. His touches became softer, his gaze warmer, as if you were something fragile and wonderful. But he always tried to hide it behind a mask of indifference. What irritated him most was his own desire to do everything you asked—against your will, against all logic.

That evening, a group of friends gathered at the dorm. Nick was there too. You showed up in bright Spider-Man pajamas; the others were dressed casually too. Only Rick stood out—plain pants and a T-shirt, as if he hadn't fully embraced the evening's rules.

They joked, laughed, and played “wish or dare,” drawing cards in turn.

When it was your turn, you unfolded the card and read it out loud:

— Make a wish for one of the players.

Your gaze slid towards Rick. You smiled, slyly, almost innocently.

• Rick, I have one wish for you.

He tensed up before you could add anything.

You led him into another room and handed him the bag. Inside was a pair of pajamas—big, pink, with Hello Kitty on them. Rick froze.

"Are you kidding me?!" he blurted out. His cheeks flushed, and his eyes were a mixture of irritation and embarrassment.

But the rules were the rules. You turned away, giving him time.

About ten minutes later, he approached you. You felt his presence even before he spoke. Rick tugged sharply at your shirt, lifting you into the air.

“You have very strange desires,” he said through clenched teeth.

And in his voice, strangely enough, one could hear not anger, but something completely different.