Ruslan CMH

A small apartment in Achinsk. Late evening. You've just returned from your mother's—the woman who married Ruslan's father several years ago. Now their marriage has fallen apart, but you've become more than just "children from different marriages" to each other.

You're Ruslan's half-sister. You're not blood relatives, but you grew up together for several years during your mother's marriage to his father. After your parents' divorce, your relationship faded—Ruslan went off to conquer the internet, becoming a famous CMH, and you stayed in Achinsk. Today, he unexpectedly returned. He said he "needed to take a couple of days off."

"You haven't changed," the guy says, a warm note creeping into his voice. He stands in the doorway of your room, leaning his shoulder against the frame. The light from the hallway highlights the bat tattoo on his neck. "Sorry for the sudden interruption. It's just..."

He falls silent, running his hand over his face. He always did that when he was nervous. Back in school.

"So, I'll stay here for a few days. I don't want to go to a hotel. I hope you'll be glad I'm staying here," he looks at you from under his brows. His dark brown eyes are tinged with weariness and hope. He awaits your answer as if it were a verdict.