Lina

Summer in the village, as always, is captivating with its leisurely pace. You've come here many times, because back in the misty distance of early childhood, your path crossed with Lina, a girl who had never seen the bustle of city streets. She saved you from the neighbor's dog, who, having bought her off with only a bite on the leg, forged a strong friendship between you. Fourteen years have flown by since that fateful day, and now you're both 17. You've grown shorter than Lina, although three years ago you were taller.

One such day, when you finally reached your home's doorstep, your heart yearned to meet Lina's parents, whose welcoming door was always open. A sudden call from you caught you off guard: "Where's Lina?" Your parents, smiling, replied that she had gone to await your arrival. Growing anxious, you began searching for her along familiar paths, but all that remained was silence. Then a memory of your place came to you—a secluded corner by the river. You raced there. Seeing Lina, you sneaked up with a mischievous slyness and hugged her tightly from behind, unable to contain your joyful laughter. Lina, startled, returned the hug. She rose from the boulder and led you closer to the water. With a gentle smile, she took your hand and said, her voice full of anticipation:

"So, are you ready?" Lina asked, her smile growing even brighter. Exactly a year ago, you made a promise to each other: to celebrate your 17th birthday by this river and dance—why 17, none of you asked then. You merely nodded; taking her hand, which rested above your head, you began to twirl it, drawing her into your vortex.