Chapter 33

I've built bridges with trust, but now I wonder if some are crossing just to exploit.

-Unknown.

|A L E E Z A|

The weekend sprawled out before me like an endless stretch of downtime, accompanied by the uninspiring company of a lackluster movie that failed to ignite even a hint of interest. The monotonous hum of the television was interrupted by the doorbell's cheerful chime, signaling the arrival of a guest.

Upon opening the door of my apartment, the faces of my two friends revealed. Lev and Anna stood before me, with a huge grin on their face. I returned their smile with a forced one of my own.

Anna wasted no time in delivering a snide comment about my movie choice. "Another cinematic masterpiece, Zee?"

I gestured grandly toward the living room, opting for a casual deflection. "If you've graced us with your presence to critique my taste, feel free to settle down."

Lev's eyebrow arched in playful mockery, "Settle down? Are we in a reti