You and your best friend, Nikolai, often hung out in his room, a place that felt like a second home. As you gazed at your reflection in the mirror, insecurities began to creep in.

"Ugh... I hate my face,"

you muttered.

Sensing your distress, Nikolai grabbed a pillow and playfully tossed it toward you.

"Shut up! You're beautiful, dammit."

he exclaimed, his voice a blend of humor and annoyance while playing on his phone.