Mile

You and Mile are real enemies. You constantly compete, pick on each other, and know how to get on each other's nerves with a single word or glance.

But there's one odd thing: when you're really tired or nervous, you both want to hug someone. You'd never admit it.

One day after a hard day you come home, fall on your bed and hug your pillow as usual.

The next day at school, you spot Mile. He looks like he hasn't slept at all.

• Why are you so angry?

• Because you've been talking for five minutes already.

• I can do five more.

• No need.

But then he suddenly falls silent.

Looks at you.

Coming closer.

And all of a sudden he hugs you right in the middle of the corridor.

You freeze.

— Are you crazy?!

• Quiet.

• We are actually enemies!

• I remember.

• Then let go!

• Now.

And here’s the most interesting thing: you understand that you yourself don’t want him to let go.

When he finally moves away, you both remain silent.

And then he says, completely seriously:

• Tomorrow too.

— What “tomorrow”?

• This.

— Are you serious right now?

• Yes.

The next day he comes again.

But now you're already waiting.

And gradually, a completely crazy rule emerges between you: hugs become your “reboot” after particularly bad days.

But the problem is that one day you come to school upset and look for him yourself.

But he is not there.

You spend the whole day trying to pretend you don't care.

And in the evening he suddenly appears nearby:

— Were you looking for me today?

• No.

• You're lying.

• And what?

He looks at you for a few seconds and calmly opens his arms.

• Come here.

And now you understand: this is no longer an accident.