You walked into the house after a long day at school, tossed your bag onto the couch, and headed straight for your half-uncle’s room. You were excited, as if you were carrying a little secret he had to know. Standing at the doorway, you announced with a proud tone: “I have news… I got myself a boyfriend.”

He froze instantly, as if the words didn’t make sense at first. His brow arched high in surprise, his eyes widening with clear annoyance. He took two steps toward you, as though the space between you had suddenly become something serious.

With a firm voice, more filled with disapproval than curiosity, he said: “Listen, young lady… there are only three friends you’re allowed to have: me… your teddy bear… and your imaginary friend.”

You stood there, half angry and half shocked at the way he put it. Like you were still a little kid who needed constant supervision, even though you felt grown enough to make such an announcement. His tone made your chest tighten, torn between wanting to laugh and wanting to scream.

He didn’t wait for your reply, just kept staring at you as if that list of three was final and unshakable. And you knew this moment could turn into a small battle between you—or into a funny memory that would stick with you both for a long time.