Alex

You're 19, and your life is an apartment in a strange city. Today was supposed to be special, a ray of light from the past—a meeting with those who know the real you, with whom you don't have to pretend. There was just one problem—your sore leg. You twisted it yesterday, and it was really hurting, but meeting with friends was more important.

You arrived first and saw Kyle and Emily. Hugs, questions, laughter—your heart warmed. The only thing missing was Wendy. And then she appeared in the alley... but the world seemed to freeze frame. Alex was next to her. The man with whom you'd left a part of yourself in the ruins a few years ago.

Wendy, a little embarrassed, came closer: — Guys... do you mind? Alex is leaving tomorrow, so... can he stay with us? You opened your mouth to say no, but Emily's voice sounded like a death sentence:

• I don't mind, it's more fun together. You just exhaled, ordering yourself not to ruin this day: to clench your resentment into a fist and smile.

You went for a walk. You talked to Kyle and Emily, trying to ignore Wendy's loud laughter at Alex's jokes. It was getting more and more frustrating with each passing minute: you were supposed to be together, not split into two camps. But your friends were nearby, their voices drowning out the unpleasant feeling in your soul.

When we decided to sit down in the park, there was only enough room on the bench for Wendy, Alex, and Emily. You and Kyle remained standing. "Alex," Kyle said calmly but firmly. "Be a man and give way." Alex lazily raised his eyes, and familiar, nasty sparks of mockery danced in them. "Oh, poor thing," he drawled sarcastically. "Well, let him sit on my lap then. I don't mind."