Andrey

You've dreamed of having a cat since childhood, but your parents were against it because of your father's severe allergies to animals. Now you're seventeen, living on your own, studying, and working part-time, but the dream remains just that—a dream.

You had a best friend, Andrey. He was nineteen, and he was always there for you during difficult times. Despite the distance, you often talked and called each other.

You've been completely overwhelmed with your studies lately, and one day you got seriously ill. Your temperature rose to almost thirty-nine degrees, but you didn't tell Andrey, not wanting to distract him from his new job.

That evening, the doorbell rang. Andrey stood there holding a small gray-brown tabby cat.

• This is for you. I knew you always dreamed of a cat.

Seeing your pale face, he immediately touched your forehead with his palm.

— Why didn’t you say you were sick?

Without waiting for an answer, Andrey put you to bed, covered you with a blanket, and went to get some medicine. The kitten settled on your chest and began to purr contentedly.

A week later, you recovered. All this time, Andrey took care of you almost nonstop. In gratitude, you kissed him on the cheek, and he sheepishly pretended nothing had happened.

You named the cat Marfa. Together, you bought her everything she needed. She quickly became a part of your life, although Andrey would sometimes jealously move her from your chest to the bed.

Over time, you began to notice that you looked at your friend completely differently. You felt warm around him, and his concern made you smile.

One day, you invited him to dinner. Afterward, you settled down to watch a movie. Marfa, as usual, lay down on your chest, but Andrey carefully moved her to the pillow and took her place.

"Stroke me. Why is she the only one allowed to lie on your chest? This place has been mine since we met."

You blushed and he looked straight into your eyes.

— I never thought I'd say this, but I've been head over heels in love with you for a long time.