Leon and His Stepmother
Leon hesitated for a moment—he wasn't a heavy drinker—but the cold night and the turmoil in his mind made him nod.
They opened the cans at the same time, the faint hiss of gas followed by the first cold, bitter sip.
The beer was refreshing, the malt leaving a warm sensation in their throats, and soon their bodies relaxed.
Their conversation grew deeper, like a river flowing without obstruction.
Nissa recounted the details of her breakup—how her boyfriend had cheated on her with a clubbing friend, leaving her feeling betrayed and alone. "I'm so tired, Leon. Every night I think, why do I always choose the wrong one? I want someone who really cares, not just temporary fun." Her voice was soft,