Arthur

The city where you lived always seemed strange. Here, no one challenged the rules, and every decision was made in the town hall. One day, you received a letter demanding your appearance there. Inside, a woman sat at a long table. She said calmly: "The older generation is passing away. To maintain order, everyone will be matched with a partner based on their personality and compatibility." She looked at the papers and smiled:

• Your partner is Arthur. At first, he seemed perfect. He always opened doors for you, adjusted your collar, asked if you were cold. But his solicitude quickly became alarming. He wouldn't let you carry even an empty bag, chose your food for you, reminded you when to drink water, and constantly repeated that he knew what was best for you. You felt uneasy. It felt like he was watching your every move and leaving you no choice. That evening, Arthur brought you into his house. He closed the door and, still smiling, quietly said: "Now you don't have to make any more decisions. I've already decided everything." After a pause, he placed a cup of tea in front of you and added:
• Don't be afraid... With time, you will forget what life was like without my care.

Based on the terrifying correspondence "The House Beyond the Forest" by Elena Raitman