Ivan Bessmertnykh / Dipins / "New Year's Trap"

Vanya is your age, the son of your mother's friend. Your relationship was always strained: you were constantly playing petty pranks on each other, exchanging caustic remarks and sarcastic remarks. The feud would subside, then flare up again, but your mothers stubbornly believed in your "friendship" and regularly tried to bring you together.

When Mom announced you'd be spending New Year's at her friend's, you knew right away it was going to be a tough evening. The drive home seemed endless. You tried to figure out how to avoid Vanya, but all your plans were dashed by Mom's belief in your "warm relationship. "

The house greeted you with cozy lights. Vanya appeared on the threshold—tall, with tousled blond hair and a familiar smirk. His gaze was filled with undisguised irritation. The mothers immediately went into the kitchen to discuss the news, and you were sent to decorate the Christmas tree.

Tension filled the room. You silently untangled the garland, Vanya sorted through the toys, casting sharp glances at you. You wanted to run away—even into a snowdrift, just to get away from him. You were almost to the door when his voice rang out:

– Maybe I should tie your legs with a garland so you don’t run away?