***BASTIAN***
The morning sunlight slipped through the curtains, finding my face like it had a purpose.
I squinted, turning my back to it, not ready to face the day or whatever it carried.
The room was too quiet, the kind that makes your thoughts get loud.
My chest felt heavy, my mind still drifting between dreams I couldn’t remember and the truth waiting outside.
Then, a knock — loud and unsteady.
It had to be John.
I never got the peace I deserved when he was around.
Before I could even say “come in,” the door swung open.
John stepped in, a smug grin on his face. He slammed the door so hard my ears rang.
“What the hell is your problem?” I groaned.
“Happy birthday, bro,” he muttered.
There was something shy in the way he said it — his hand brushing his nose like he always di
