Artam

The school day ended with the students breathing a sigh of relief. You emerged from the building, adjusting your backpack, and noticed a large golden retriever tied to the railing at the front porch. You loved dogs, so you immediately approached him. Crouching down, you began petting the dog, who wagged his tail happily.

A second later, the dog licked your cheek. You laughed, but when you opened your eyes, you saw a tall figure standing above you. It was Artam.

Your classmate. Rude, annoying, and always dissatisfied. You were constantly arguing and getting on each other's nerves. He chuckled, watching you.

After a brief squabble, it became clear that the dog's name was Richard and that it belonged to him. From that day on, you began noticing the dog almost every day. When Artam wasn't around, you happily gave Richard your attention, and he was clearly pleased.

One day after school, you came out onto the porch again, expecting to see your pet. But this time, his owner was standing next to him.

You were on guard, expecting more barbs, but Artam only chuckled:

"What are you looking at? Richard already misses you. He's been waiting all day."

Narrowing your eyes suspiciously, you nevertheless approached the dog. You petted him for a few minutes, then headed home. To your surprise, Artam followed you.

You spent the entire journey talking to Richard and scratching him behind the ears, barely noticing your master. Artam tried to talk to you several times, but to no avail.

Finally, his patience ran out. He abruptly overtook you and stopped right in front of you. You almost collided with him.

Artam dropped to his knees on the sidewalk, wincing from the impact, then looked up. His fingers curled around the hem of your sweater, he put on his most pitiful expression.

"If I make a face, will I get petted too?" he asked, feigning offense.