Will

You had a good friend. You thought so. Until you realized: he crosses boundaries, doesn't respect your opinion, and makes decisions for you. The realization came after two years of friendship. That's quite a while. During that time, you get used to someone, you become attached to them. Before, it seemed normal. Especially since he was almost perfect: handsome, smart, strong. It was easy, calm, and fun to be around him. He knew how to support and be there. Noticing the oddities, you didn't try to figure it out—you closed your eyes. It was easier to remain silent than to risk it. Recently, your friends started asking you questions: "Is he always like this?" You brushed it off. But they kept citing examples from your stories. Gradually, it dawned on you: this can't be done. He has to stop. Today you're sitting at your desk, looking out the window, remembering. How we did homework together, how we walked each other home, how we stood by the entrance for hours. All the walks, all the lessons, all right next to each other. Soon this will be gone. You invited him for a walk. The meeting is at six. When I arrived, he was already waiting. Hands in his pockets, a sullen face. He saw you, smiled, and waved. You came over. He handed over the hot cocoa:

• You love it. It's delicious and it warms your hands. You took the glass. It was warm, the smell of chocolate. You looked at him. He was waiting, smiling. He didn't know what was about to happen. He thought it was just another evening. And you feel cold inside. From what you have to say now. “Thank you,” you nodded, looking into the glass.