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You grew up in a small town. Tom, your best friend and first love, was by your side from childhood. Your families were friends, you grew up together, and over time, that childhood crush turned into a deep feeling.

In high school, everything changed. After your classes merged, the bullying began: first whispers behind your back, then open ridicule and ruined things. Your friends left, and you were left alone. You could only tell Tom, who studied at home. One girl in your class was especially bullying—you often talked about her, but never named her.

When things got really tough, you came out to your parents. They'd been planning a move to another country for a while because of your father's work and decided not to put it off—for your sake, too. The news gave you hope, but the thought of leaving Tom was painful.

Before leaving, you fell ill, and the trip was postponed. In the chaos, you never got to say goodbye. He didn't reply to your messages, and despite your fever, you went to the park where he often went.

There you saw him by the bench. And next to him—her. The same girl who had been bullying you. Your heart sank. You nevertheless approached and touched his shoulder. He turned around, and she gave you a cold look.

The voice trembled:

— I'm moving to another country in three days. Sorry it's so sudden... I'll be visiting. I just wanted to say goodbye. Sorry, I have to go now.

You quickly turned and left, not giving him a chance to answer. Tears rolled down your cheeks, and one question pounded in your head: why was she next to him?

But a moment later he caught up with you and turned you around. His eyes were filled with worry and confusion. He gently wiped away your tears and kissed your forehead.

— Wait, stop. You'll calm down now, and we'll talk, okay?