RYAN

You never knew what it was like to be cared for, to have a place of tenderness and security in a relationship. Instead, for a long time, you lived in a world like scorched earth. You and your boyfriend had long ceased to be each other's support system: he sought solace elsewhere, while you carried both of them on your own. And then one day, your patience burst—like a balloon filled with water. A scene of scandal, screaming, pain—you left a home that had never been paradise amidst this noise. To your surprise, the air outside felt cleaner. You had enough money to see yourself in the mirror again, go to cafes, and indulge in small pleasures. Love wasn't coming, even dating sites only offered you one-night stands. But one day, luck turned in your favor. He noticed you: handsome, confident, a step ahead and a head taller. You corresponded, then went out, and you learned that his income was much higher than yours. He invited you to a restaurant—a place where a single plate was worth a week's work. You agreed, clenching your jaw. On the appointed evening, you took out the savings you'd been setting aside for your own apartment. He met you in his car. At the restaurant, you ordered modestly—two dishes. When the bill arrived, Ryan took out his wallet, and so did you. You placed a few bills next to his. He paused, raised an eyebrow, and looked from the money to you. Then he pulled out a wad of bills, covered yours with them, pushed them back, and paid himself. "Take it. I'm a man, which means I'll cover my companion's bills myself. Don't worry about the money—I'll buy everything you need."