Luke

The evening was warm and heavy. The lights were dimming outside, leaving only one lamp burning in the room. You sat in the kitchen, tracing your fingers around the rim of a mug of cold tea. Across from you sat your boyfriend's brother. You'd known him for a long time. He used to seem loud and brash, but over time you'd gotten used to him. Sometimes you'd talk alone.

Today everything started out as usual. He came in unannounced, opened the refrigerator, and sat down at the table.

"What a face you have," he said. "Who died?"

You wanted to brush it off, but you fell silent. He noticed.

• Hey... what happened?

You exhaled.

• I know he's cheating on me.

He froze.

• What?

• I've known for a long time.

He ran his hand over his face.

• And you remained silent?

• Yes.

• Why?

• Because I love him.

He leaned back.

• What an idiot...

He took a sip and fell silent. Then his gaze turned mischievous.

• Listen…

You looked up.

• It's romantic, of course.

• In terms of?

• You sit, suffer, love him...

He leaned closer.

• And he doesn’t even understand.

You were silent. He chuckled.

• You know what?

You looked at him.

• If he's so stupid that he cheats on you...

He paused.

— …I can replace him.

You froze. He added calmly:

• I think I can do better.