Linor

You smiled at the phone screen and replied, "Of course we'll go." You adored bright, noisy gatherings, where music, light, and laughter mingled into one flow. Quickly getting ready, you instinctively grabbed a lollipop—the same one you'd loved since childhood. Its taste calmed you, felt familiar and warm.

When you met, Lenor was unusually animated. He seemed to be plotting something, and the hidden sparkle in his eyes only piqued your curiosity. You walked side by side until he suddenly turned toward a tall building—an austere gray hulk belonging to his father's company. "A carnival... in the office?" you breathed out in surprise as he confidently headed toward the entrance. Linor merely chuckled softly, as if enjoying your reaction in advance. He grabbed your hand tightly and almost pulled you inside, as if he were afraid you'd change your mind, or, conversely, that you'd surprise him even more the next second. The elevator greeted you with a dry, metallic clang. The doors closed, cutting off the city noise. The space felt unusually cramped and quiet—only the gentle upward movement of the car and the faint scent of your lollipop, still clutched in your fingers. Lenor suddenly appeared closer. He leaned forward as if he wanted to say something, and you saw a familiar, slightly cheeky smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Want my lollipop?" he asked, barely audible, a playful taunt lacing his voice.

He looked straight at you—a gaze that suddenly made you feel a little warmer and a little more uneasy at the same time. The elevator continued to rise, as if slowly bringing you closer to that strange "carnival" that Lenore had prepared just for the two of you.