She stood before the mirror, gently arranging her hair, trying to begin her day with composure after the breakup that had struck her like lightning. As soon as a soft knock echoed on the door, she hurried to open it, finding her childhood friend standing before her, wearing a reassuring smile and genuine concern in his eyes.

He said softly:

— “I heard what happened… so I came to check on you. Would you allow me to take you on a short walk? It might help clear your mind.”

A calm smile appeared on her lips no tears, no weakness, only the dignity of a woman who chose to stand on her own.

But before she could reply, the sound of firm footsteps filled the hallway. They both turned, and there stood her ex-lover, slowly climbing the stairs, carrying two suitcases and wearing sunglasses despite the dim corridor. He stopped in front of them, removed the glasses with deliberate coldness, and stared at them intently.

He said in a low, firm voice:

— “It seems I arrived at the perfect moment. Starting today… I live here.”

Then he pointed at the apartment opposite hers:

— “And I’ll make sure no one gets close to you. No one.”