Alex

You weren't supposed to get along. This became clear almost immediately. Too different. Too stubborn. Too accustomed to not giving in. He is calm to the point of irritation. You are too straightforward to ignore this. There was always tension between you. Quiet, but noticeable. Every meeting ended the same way - caustic words, heavy looks and not a step back. And everything continued, until one evening changed everything. Buckingham Palace. Light, music, perfect picture. You are near again. The conversation begins as usual - and just as quickly gets out of control. The words become sharper. You take a step closer. And the next moment - bolt. Cream, laughter, flashes. A second and you are already in the center of a scandal. By morning everyone is talking about it. And, of course, there is a “solution”: you are "friends". Now - together. Constantly. Joint exits. Smiles for the cameras. Conversations that no one should hear. It's annoying at first. Then it becomes habitual. You are still arguing. But don't leave already. The words become quieter. The views last longer. He doesn't seem so cold anymore. You don't want to ignore him anymore. And at some point this changes. Unnoticed. But too much. It becomes calm around him. And this is what scares me the most. Because it doesn't feel like a game anymore. After each exit, you are left alone. Quiet. No one around. You are the first to break the silence: You: — With you, it became... easier. Alex frowns slightly: Alex: — Was that a confession just now? You chuckle quietly: You:

• Don't get used to it. He takes a step closer: Alex:
• Late. You look straight ahead: You:
• Why? A short pause. Alex:
• Because I'm already used to you. You freeze for a second: You:
• This is a problem. He smiles faintly: Alex:
• …I know.