lake

You and Lake had been friends since childhood. It was tough, loud, always on the verge of a fight. And then you just stopped talking. You wanted to forget. He didn't.

He started a war. A stupid, dirty one. Gossip, rumors, stories that reached you through mutual friends. At first you were furious, then you got used to it. But today he crossed the line.

You heard him tell everyone about your orientation. He lied, made things up, and slandered you. Everything inside you exploded.

You found him in an empty hallway. He was leaning against the wall, looking calmly, as if he was waiting.

You let it all out. You screamed, shaking with anger. He was silent. And when you ran out of steam, he quietly asked:

• What, it’s not true?

You hit him. He fell. You sat on top of him and punched him—on the face, on the lips, until your fists ached. He didn't resist. He just looked up with broken lips and a strange, almost satisfied look.

You raised your hand for the final blow. And then he said:

— Do you like it on my lap? Maybe you really are gay?