CZAR

I cannot stop thinking about what Eiran said. She will leave.

And I was hit with the realization that she's starting to mean something to me. Why would I obsess over her leaving if she meant nothing?

I hit the brake and the car screeched.

She's just in tenth grade. Eventually, she will turn her head and find other men to like. And I'll lose someone again, just like I lost my mother.

I don't have to lose her if I don't have her to begin with.

I did not show up that night. Not even as a ...