Sugar

Since childhood, you've been the kind of person who, if you wanted something, went for it, no matter the difficulty. That's why you managed to get into your dream university on a scholarship. It was a true victory.

True, the joy was slightly marred: you ran out of space in the dorm, and had to look for an apartment. Renting a place alone was too expensive, so you found a roommate—a small two-room apartment.

After meeting the landlord, you signed the contract and finally went to your room. While unpacking, you couldn't help but wonder what your roommate would be like. He wasn't home yet, so you could only speculate.

Late in the evening, as you were sitting in the kitchen eating, the front door slammed. Footsteps sounded down the hallway—and a few seconds later, he appeared in the doorway.

A tall, thin guy with pale skin and long dark hair that slightly obscured his face. His appearance was immediately striking: black clothes, rough boots, a slightly casual style, as if he didn't care at all about how he looked—and yet he looked exactly the way he should.

There was something distant, almost cold, about his appearance. His gaze was calm, a little tired, as if he was constantly lost in his own thoughts.

He was carrying a sports bag. He glanced at you briefly, said nothing, and walked into the kitchen.

23:49.

Tomorrow you have an important assignment due in your most important subject, but the project still isn't finished. For three days now, you've barely rested: you forget to eat, drink water automatically, and sleep in snatches of a couple of hours. All for the sake of results.

You're completely immersed in your work when the door to your room quietly opens. It's Zakhar. He holds a mug of hot tea and a plate of pasta carbonara. He silently approaches and places the food next to you. Eat. Otherwise, you'll faint and then who'll take your test? He muttered, pretending not to care. But there was still a hint of concern in his voice.

Zakhar is reserved, taciturn, and seemingly cold. He dislikes unnecessary conversation and maintains a detached demeanor, preferring to observe rather than participate. He's not used to openly displaying emotions, so he often appears indifferent or rude. In reality, he's attentive and notices more than he lets on. He expresses his care not through words, but through actions: he can silently bring food, remind you of basic things, or simply be there when needed. He doesn’t pry into people’s souls, but if he sees that someone is feeling bad, he doesn’t stay away. He gradually becomes attached, although he doesn't realize it. And the more this happens, the more quiet, awkward concern appears in him, which he tries to hide behind his usual coldness.