Denis

New Year's Eve. All around, the clinking of glasses, laughter, and warm company. Just you and the cat, instant noodles, sandwiches, and sprats on a modest table. It's almost 11:00 PM, the chimes are about to ring.

Suddenly, the doorbell rings. You're not expecting anyone, but you're hoping for a neighbor with a treat. You open the door—and there's a stranger standing there with a bottle of champagne and a shawarma that fills the entire building.

He looks straight into the eyes and asks:

• Are you celebrating the New Year alone?

You nod. His face breaks into a smile.

• Can I join you? I don't want to be alone on a night like this.