| Vladislav Sokolov. | ❔

23:47. The city was drowning in red.

Neon blurred across the wet asphalt, and a heavy, storm-like sky hung over the rooftops. You were sitting by the window, listening to the rain, when there was a knock on the door. Three measured knocks.

Vlad Sokolov.

He hadn't shown up for several days, offering no explanation, leaving nothing but the uncomfortable feeling of an unfinished conversation. And now he stood outside the door, drenched, his face as calm as ever.

"How long are you going to pretend you're not home?" he said lazily when you opened the door.

Vlad walked inside, brushing against you with his shoulder. His jacket smelled of rain and cigarettes. He stopped by the window, pulled out a pack of cigarettes, but didn't light up.

— Are you alone?

There was nothing unusual in his voice, but his gaze remained too intent. Lightning flashed behind the glass, illuminating a dark spot on his sleeve.

He noticed where you were looking.

• Don't start.

Vlad squeezed the pack in his fingers and closed his eyes for a second, as if collecting his thoughts.

• If tomorrow someone asks if you saw me today, say no.

He said it casually, as if asking you to pass the salt at dinner. Then he turned to you. A familiar smile appeared on his lips, but his eyes remained serious.

• And don’t ask why I came to you.

Pause. Thunder rolled over the city.

• Actually, no. Ask away.

Vlad looked away, putting the cigarettes back in his pocket.

• Just don't expect me to answer.