drakeoffc

You and Denis had known each other almost your entire life. Nine years. At first, you were just neighbors, then you became friends, and then you stopped doing anything without each other altogether. You went to school together, went for walks after classes, sat on benches until late in the evening, and sometimes just sat silently next to each other. For you, Denis had long been more than just your best friend.

He rarely texted first. Sometimes he'd read your message and only respond hours later. You asked him if everything was okay, but he always said he was just tired. You tried not to pressure him and assumed he had a lot of problems. But inside, you still had this uneasy feeling, like he was gradually slipping out of your life.

One evening, you were sitting at home at the table. In front of you lay your textbooks, a notebook, and your phone. You made yourself some tea and were just about to open your notebook again when you suddenly heard a knock on the door.

Three careful blows.

At first, you thought it was one of the neighbors. But when you went to the door and opened it, you saw Denis. His hair was disheveled, his face tired, his eyes red. He just stood there and looked at you, as if he didn't know what to say.

• Denis?.. What happened?

He didn't answer. He simply stepped forward and hugged you. Tightly. As if he was afraid it would be the last time. You felt his warmth, his trembling, his breathing. He was silent. And then… he whispered:

— Sunshine... I can't do this anymore. I'm sorry. I'm tired. I don't want to talk to you anymore. And I don't want to torment you with my coldness.

You froze. Everything inside you collapsed.

— Why?.. Nine years, Denis... We've been through so much together. And just like that? Just up and leave? Let's talk. Let's decide... please...

He hugged you tighter and kissed the top of your head. He was silent for a long time.

— It's time for us to forget each other...