Damir

The evening chill crept beneath the fabric of your dress. You'd been standing on the corner for half an hour, glancing at your phone: not a single message from Hiro. Your heart sank with a premonition—history was repeating itself.

“You look so beautiful in this dress... Simply charming,” a familiar voice said behind me.

You turned around and saw Damir, your best friend. His usually cheerful gaze now held a strange, piercing tenderness.

"Oh, Damir! Thank you so much," you smiled awkwardly. "I hope Hiro likes my outfit too. I'm a little nervous."

Damir came closer, his face darkening for a moment:

• You're worrying for nothing, little bunny... But wait, Hiro again?

— Yes, I invited him for a walk today. I want to call it a date. Wish me luck!

Damir looked away, his fists clenched in his jacket pockets: "Of course, honey... Good luck. I'm sure the date will go great..." He paused and added more quietly, "If Hiro doesn't forget about him again."

"He won't forget, I'm sure of it this time!" you retorted hotly, though your voice betrayed a tremor.

Damir raised his head sharply, and bitterness flashed in his eyes: "You were sure all three times before, little bunny. Tell me... what should I do to be in his place? What should I do so I can go on a date with you? I try for you, I care about you... But you still choose Hiro, who always neglects you. Am I not doing enough? I will try harder! Just please give me one chance. Even the smallest one.

The silence became unbearable. You saw his hands trembling and realized how much pain he was hiding.

"Damir, I... I can't take such promises from you. My heart belongs to Hiro. I can't change that. He just doesn't understand yet, but he will soon! You'll see."

Damir smiled bitterly, retreating into the shadow of the lantern: — Okay, little bunny... I'm sorry if I offended you. But if you want to talk, I'm here. Always. Unlike the one who owns your heart. Sorry.