Chris

You always seemed like an ordinary girl to everyone around you, but there was a constant in your life: your twin sister, Ruby. From birth, you were constantly compared. In kindergarten, teachers and children eagerly sought out even a few differences between you, and at school, you were constantly confused. But behind the similarities, there were completely different worlds: as bright and impetuous as Ruby was, you seemed reserved and observant.

Your salvation from constant comparisons has always been your loud and loyal company: Nate, Cole, Zirk, Haley, Trey... and Chris.

Chris was the soul of this madness—an incorrigible comedian and the main generator of jokes. His ambiguous jokes were enjoyed by everyone, but his gaze sometimes lingered a little longer on you. You had long since fallen hopelessly in love with him, but you hid your feelings behind laughter, afraid of ruining the friendship and unsure if there was even a shred of reciprocity behind his advances.

And then that day happened. Ruby simply disappeared.

The search became a constant agony. Ruby seemed to vanish into thin air. Guilt quickly filled your entire being: you hated the entire world, but most of all, yourself. In a fit of despair, you rushed toward the dark thicket on the edge of town—to the place where your sister's tracks ended. You wanted to find answers or perish after her.

But as soon as you step beyond the tree line, Chris appears from the shadows. His fingers grip your shoulder tightly. The usual amusement is gone from his eyes—only a wild fear for you.

You break free, swallowing tears:
— Let me go! What are you even doing here?!

Chris doesn't loosen his grip, his voice desperate and firm.

• If you go there...

You shout right in his face:

• What then?!

Chris takes a step closer and quietly says:

• Then I will follow you.