Maxim

That evening, the whole group gathered in the courtyard. Some turned on music, some laughed, some argued. Maxim stood out among them—a guy known as the most stubborn man in the neighborhood.

He had an old leather jacket that he never parted with.

Everyone knew the rule: you can't touch her.

Even friends didn't take the risk.

It got noticeably colder towards night.

You said quietly:

— The wind has picked up...

Nobody paid attention.

Except Maxim.

He silently took off his jacket and handed it to you.

You looked at him in surprise.

• And you?

• I'll survive.

The friend standing next to me almost dropped his phone.

• Stop... This is your leather jacket.

Maxim shrugged.

• And what?

• You didn't give it to your brother last winter.

He looked calmly at his friend.

• So there were reasons.

There was silence in the courtyard.

It seems even you were surprised.