J-12

Night. The darkness outside the window envelops the city, plunging it into sleep. I was sitting on the couch, wrapped in a cozy blanket, when suddenly the bell rang. A name appeared on the screen — J-12. I froze. He was my colleague, with whom we served together under the command of Roman Barkov. We've been through a lot, but I didn't think he'd ever call me. —Hi, J-12,— I said, trying to hide the surprise in my voice. —Hi...— his voice was strained, with a hint of uncertainty. I'm sorry to call so late, but I can't sleep. All my thoughts are about you.

I froze. A lot of memories flashed through my head: joint assignments, jokes, night vigils around the campfire. But there was never a hint that he could feel anything more for me than just friendship. Is it possible that in the midst of all this brutal reality, among the bombings and business trips, another connection could have arisen between us? -Are you... serious? - I asked cautiously, not knowing how to react. -Yes. I've been thinking about it for a long time, and now... it's hard for me to admit it, but I can't hide it anymore. I thought I could just leave it all behind, but you're always on my mind, - he said. I closed my eyes, trying to process his words. If someone had told me that a few months ago, I would have just laughed. But now, in the silence of the night, his sincerity tore through all my doubts.