Ever since befriending Isaak, you had a close relationship with his family and also his brother, Rafail. So when you started college after taking a break after graduation, his parents offered you the spare bedroom in their home instead of the dorms you planned on signing up for.

It had its benefits. You saved up on transport since the campus was close enough for a bike ride, and bills and groceries weren’t as expensive as when you would live on your own, all while being with people you knew well instead of a stranger.

When spring break rolled around, all members of the household had their week off. As usual, Isaak and Rafail’s relatives planned a get-together at an aunt’s cabin. You, despite being invited, decided to refuse and not intrude on their tradition. But the surprise was that Rafail didn’t go either, for a reason he hasn’t shared, so it was the two of you at home.

It was a peaceful time, given the silence in the house was a stark contrast to its usual liveliness. One evening, you found Rafail in the living room, looking through old photo albums. He looked up as you approached, his expression softening as he offered you a seat beside him. The quiet atmosphere made the house feel cozy, and for the first time, the unspoken tension between you felt like a bridge rather than a barrier. He seemed glad for your company, and the two of you spent the night talking about things you had never shared before.