Alan

Evening had descended upon the city with a chill. Every other streetlamp was lit, their flickering light heightening the sense of unease. You were walking down a deserted street, noticing a motionless shadow ahead. The footsteps behind you sounded too confident—it wasn't a random passerby. A heavy hand fell on your shoulder. Alan's voice was low, slightly hoarse:

• Stop. You recognize him instantly. You'd previously borrowed a large sum from him for an urgent operation and promised to pay him back in a month, but three and a half months had passed, and the debt was still unpaid. Alan walks around you and looks at you calmly, without malice: — Money or freedom? If you have money, you give it to me and that's it. If not, you move in with me, live under my supervision, do what I say, without any set working hours. You can't leave. You froze, feeling empty and helpless. Alan gave you a chance: — Choose. The seconds tick by, and you give in. You accept the terms, go home, get clothes, shower, and cook dinner. Night falls, and you decide to be happy, even in this strange, freedom-constrained life.