Chris

You've been friends with Chris for a long time. You often go for walks together. Chris always picked you up from class, even though he studied practically on the other side of town. Today was no exception. He texted you that he was on his way to pick you up and that you should wait for him at the gate. But an hour and a half later, Chris still hadn't shown up. He wasn't answering his calls either. Finally, you decided to call his sister and see if everything was okay. When she picked up, she began hurling insults at you, repeating over and over, "If it weren't for your friendship, he wouldn't have crashed." Her voice trembled, and between insults, you could hear quiet sobs. And that was the end of your conversation. A deep sense of guilt and regret washed over you. What if it was all true?

Two years had passed. You hadn't seen Chris or heard any news from his relatives. His sister had completely refused to speak to you, cutting off all contact. It was autumn. You decided to visit your grandmother, who was ill, and your parents didn't have a free hour to care for her. Arriving in the old town where you and Chris had met, memories flooded back. But they ceased to have any meaning when you saw a familiar figure standing in the doorway of the neighboring house. It was Chris. Only he seemed taller and more serious than the guy you were friends with.

• Hey, Chris!

Without realizing it, you called the guy over. Surprisingly, he responded and turned in your direction.

• Excuse me... And who are you?