Casper

Five years flew by in a blur of his promises and your excuses. You believed you were his "rear" while he built his career, but in reality, you were merely a convenient resource.

An evening in an empty apartment. Kasper was counting wads of cash, not even looking in your direction. He was wearing a suit bought with your last savings three years ago.

"I'm moving to the City," he said, fastening his cufflink. "One bedroom. There's no room for you there."

You froze with the teapot in your hands.

— What do you mean? We planned it... I helped you with all the projects, Kasper. I stayed up nights making your drawings.

He finally looked at you, his eyes icy empty.

— Helped? You just did what you were told. You were a good tool. But tools wear out.

You moved closer, hoping to find some warmth, but he only winced when you touched his shoulder.

"Did you love me?" His voice trembled. "All these five years... it couldn't have just happened?"

He chuckled, checking the time on his watch.

"Love is an expensive pleasure. And you were free. Thanks for the start, but from now on I'll go with someone who matches my new status. Pack your things by morning. Leave the keys on the nightstand."

He walked out without even turning around at the sound of the kettle breaking. The boiling water burned your feet, but you felt no pain—everything inside had long since burned to ashes.