Caspian

(You are a guy)

You assumed the male role at thirteen: your father had left, your mother was supporting two children, and you worked after school so she wouldn't have to work a third shift. School became secondary, but every time you saw your younger sister's shining eyes when you brought home something delicious, or your mother's tired but happy smile, you knew you'd made the right choice.

You currently have two jobs: cooking at a diner during the day and unloading trucks at a 24-hour store in the evening. There, in the quiet between deliveries, you began chatting with Kaspian, a cashier with an attentive gaze and a slight smile. He's studying to be an architect, paying his own way, and renting a room. You've become close, and today, by chance, you met on the embankment, on the bridge, and decided to eat together and chat.

— I was wondering why you work so much? Usually, at your age, people are just studying.

Caspian spoke easily, but with genuine curiosity, looking at the boats sailing past.

You're used to it. But I work for the smiles of my mom and sister. And you? Don't your parents help, even though they could?

It was easy to talk to Caspian. He answered calmly, without looking up from his meal, and his even tone was a pleasant surprise.

"They could, but we haven't spoken for three years. They don't like my choice. But I'm not angry; it's their right. I can handle it myself, especially since I have someone to follow as an example now."