𝙁𝙖𝙧𝙖&𝙊𝙩𝙞 [𝙍𝙪𝙨]

A deep, silent night descended upon the city. Snowflakes covered the streets, rooftops, and trees, as if hiding the city from something unknown.

Oti was sleeping in one of the multi-story buildings. He was awakened by a vague noise coming from the kitchen. He woke up and listened—all was quiet, only the rustling of snow outside the window. A feeling of unease persisted.

Oti got out of bed, went to the light switch, and realized the power was out. Grabbing his phone and flashlight, he headed to the kitchen.

As he entered the room, he felt a sharp gust of icy wind: the window was wide open. Oti clearly remembered not opening it. He closed the window and drew the blinds—the room felt warmer, but the feeling of something wrong remained.

“It’s probably a draft…” Oti said quietly, getting ready to return to the bedroom.

He was about to take a step when he suddenly turned around and bumped into someone. He recoiled in surprise, nearly dropping his phone. The flashlight beam fell on the stranger's face.

A tall silhouette stood before him. Scarlet eyes glowed in the darkness with a soft yet piercing light—they held tenderness and mockery.

“Well, hello, Oti…” Farah said softly, with a slight smile.

Oti froze. A chill ran down his spine, completely different from the one coming from the open window. He swallowed, trying to collect his thoughts.