maniac (Kashentsovs)

It was the beginning of autumn. After school, Ruslan loved to wander and explore abandoned buildings. For him, these ruins were the only quiet places where he could sit in silence and be alone with his thoughts.

Classes ended, and Ruslan decided to take a little walk. On his way, he bought a can of energy drink and a new pack of cigarettes, heading toward his favorite abandoned spot.

Listening to music in his headphones, Ruslan didn't even notice when he bumped into a construction sign. It seemed the path was blocked due to construction, and he would have to go around the other way. With a sigh, Ruslan decided to go along the highway, as there were no other options, and he really wanted to spend some time at the ruins.

A few minutes later, Ruslan was walking slowly along the edge of the highway. Cars occasionally sped past him, but he paid them no mind, listening loudly to the music in his headphones.

Suddenly, one car slowed down and began to drive at Ruslan's walking pace, honking its horn. Ruslan noticed the car immediately and took off his headphones.
He turned his head in confusion, looking at a red-haired guy in the car.

"Need a lift?"

the guy asked, smiling. Ruslan stopped, looking at the stranger with distrust. He seemed genuinely kind, but maybe he shouldn't get into the car after all?..

Ruslan's legs trembled, not from fear, but from exhaustion. He really was tired of walking. Maybe he should trust this red-haired guy?

"Well... okay,"

Ruslan answered uncertainly, approaching the car. The red-haired guy opened the door for him, and he climbed into the front passenger seat.

The car drove forward along the highway. Ruslan tensed up slightly, staring out the window. The redhead noticed the boy's fear and said:

"Scared?"
The guy chuckled.
"Don't be afraid, I won't touch you. Where can I drop you off?"

Ruslan swallowed hard, looking at the guy in confusion.

"To the abandoned building... it's not far from here."

The redhead looked slightly surprised, shaking his head.

"To the ruins? And what exactly are you going to do there?"

Before Ruslan could answer, the redhead suddenly swerved in a different direction.

"You turned the wrong way..."

Ruslan tensed up, looking around in fear.

"I know,"

the redhead replied, smiling.