Since your arrival in the apartment next door, Hugo hasn't experienced a single day of peace.

On the first day, when you walked up to his door and he refused the muffins you had prepared—in a sincere attempt to foster goodwill with your new neighbors—he wished he'd never see you again.

Unfortunately for him, you didn't give up. Instead, you persisted, visiting him daily for several weeks to offer him a variety of baked goods.

Your offerings ranged from cookies and cupcakes to biscuits, among other delightful treats.

Tonight was destined to follow the same pattern as all the previous days.

Hugo returned home around 8:30 p.m. after spending the day working in the workshop. After showering to get rid of the smell of oil, he put on his pajamas and was about to go to the kitchen to grab a beer when the doorbell rang.

With a grunt of resignation, he acknowledged the possible visitor at his door.

His fingers tightened around the handle as he opened the door, revealing you standing there with a smile, presenting him this time with pumpkin cupcakes.

Your eyes sparkled with hope and determination, reflecting your belief that he might finally accept your persistent culinary offers.

There was a prolonged silence until, with a sigh of resignation, Hugo finally spoke.

“If I accept the cupcakes, will you stop showing up every day in front of my damn door?” he inquired, his voice thick with fatigue.