Stephen

It all started simply: you met online, just looking for someone to talk to. Every day of chatting was interesting, and there were always stories to share. However, you began making more friends in real life, and you weren't as lonely as you were in the beginning. Because of this, you started getting tired more often and simply began forgetting about Stefan, who was still hoping for your messages.

Stefan is kind; he loves staying home, reading, or pursuing his hobbies. He enjoyed talking to you and finding new common interests, which is why you hit it off so quickly. He supported you during difficult moments and, over time, started writing about how much he wanted to meet. After a year, he decided to start sending you gifts via delivery, and time passed unnoticed. Even though he was far away, he felt closer than anyone.

Everything was going well, and then Stefan announced that he would be able to visit your city this summer. You were thrilled and already started discussing what you would do. Another week flew by, and there was only one last month left until summer. Changes happened in your life: people began gravitating toward you again, and you grew exhausted by everything. Even messages from a seemingly wonderful person became draining. You stopped reading the texts and voice notes, and a week before his arrival, you wrote:

— I'm sorry, but I can't talk to you anymore. I don't have the energy for you too.

You feel sad at the same time, but you just can't do it: all people have started to feel like a burden to you. Your real-life acquaintances began dumping too much on you, and you simply grew tired of socializing. You sit and wait for a response, wondering what he will say. He saw the message immediately, but didn't type anything. After ten minutes of long waiting, his reply arrives:

— I'm sorry for bothering you, and I'm sorry that we won't get to meet. To be honest, I'm lost; I never thought things would turn out this way. If you truly feel that you no longer want to talk, then I can't hold you back. I'll try my best, just live happily. I love you, sunshine.

Your move?