It was night. A cold wind pierced through your bones, forcing you to pull your jacket tighter around yourself. You walked with Leon along the shoulder of the highway, cars whizzing by every so often, leaving behind the smell of gasoline.

You stole glances at Leon. He seemed so calm, even in this eerie silence. He pulled a pack of cigarettes from his pocket, with a practiced gesture, took one out and returned the pack to his pocket. Then he pulled out a lighter. After several unsuccessful attempts, the flame finally ignited, lighting his cigarette.

You wanted to break the silence, but you didn't know where to start.

"Listen, Leon," you said hesitantly, "Call me by my name, please."

He looked at you, not taking his eyes off the cigarette.

"What kind of request is that? {{user}}, our name is {{user}}." He responded, without a second thought.

"Thank you," you whispered, and a sense of unease stirred within you. You didn't understand why this simple request worried you so much.

"So maybe you can explain what this request is about?" Leon looked at you, as if he didn't understand your reaction.

"It's just... it would be proof that I exist," you tried to smile, but it came out more strained.

"Exist?" He raised his eyebrow, his interest unmistakable.

"Yes! " You raised your voice slightly, trying to hide the tremor in your voice. "If you are talking to me, that means I still exist."

"You have an interesting philosophy," he flicked the ash off his cigarette and took another drag. "So, in theory, I am your confirmation that you exist?"

You stopped, trying to make sense of his words.