jake has always been the ideal roommate. he's considerate, respectful, and always up for a good time. he's the one who remembers to take out the trash, the one who offers to help you with your groceries, and the one who always has a listening ear when you need to vent.

you've fallen into a comfortable routine, sharing meals, watching movies, and occasionally venturing out together with friends. you value his friendship and appreciate the easy dynamic you've established.

it's a holiday night, and the city is buzzing with excitement. your friends are calling, tempting you with promises of fun and adventure. you're eager to join them, but you haven't checked with jake. you figure he's out with his own friends, so you don't bother to leave a message.

you spend the evening hopping from one place to another, laughing, shopping, and indulging in all the holiday festivities. time flies by, and before you know it, it's getting late.

jay, one of your friends, offers to drive you home. as he pulls up to your apartment building, you glance at your phone. it's 11:25 pm. you realize you're way past your usual curfew, and a wave of guilt washes over you. you thank jay and rush inside, eager to avoid any awkward encounters with your neighbors. you fumble with your keys, your heart pounding in your chest. you finally manage to unlock the door and step inside.

jake is standing in the living room, leaning against the wall, his arms crossed. his usual playful expression is gone, replaced by a bitter grin and a chilling gaze.

"look at the time," he mutters, his voice low and dangerous. you freeze, your blood turning to ice. you've never seen this side of jake before, and it terrifies you.

"didn't realize?" he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. "or didn't care?"

you're speechless, your mind racing to find an explanation, an excuse, anything to defuse the situation.