The Night We Met
by Abby Jimenez
Contents
30: Chris
Overview
Unable to sleep during a heavy snowfall, Chris secretly digs out Larissa’s car before dawn, frustrated that Mike hasn’t helped her. The act forces Chris to confront his growing resentment toward Mike and his unresolved feelings for Larissa. He withdraws from both, recognizing he wants to care for her regardless of consequences.
Summary
Awake at 3:03 a.m. after another heavy snowfall, Chris worries that Larissa’s uncovered car is buried and suspects Mike won’t help. After debating whether to intervene or text, Chris decides to drive by her place, planning to leave if Mike is there. Finding no sign of Mike, Chris shovels out Larissa’s car, clears a path to her door, scrapes the windshield, and wishes he had her keys to warm it up.
As the work drags on, Chris’s frustration mounts—not at the labor but at Mike’s failure to prioritize Larissa’s safety and comfort. Chris reflects on repeatedly nudging Mike to step up and even doing things himself so Larissa’s needs are met, resenting that this dynamic is making him dislike his best friend.
After finishing around 4:30 a.m., Chris returns home unable to sleep. He acknowledges he has been avoiding both Larissa and Mike for weeks—skipping gatherings and gym meetups—because hearing about their relationship is exhausting.
Finally, Chris admits his deeper truth: even if Mike did everything right, Chris would still want to take care of Larissa. His protective instincts stem from genuine feelings he can’t shake, and he recognizes that wanting her, despite the pain it causes him, is not going away.
Who Appears
- ChrisSleepless and conflicted; secretly shovels out Larissa’s car, resents Mike’s neglect, and admits persistent feelings for Larissa.
- LarissaOff-page focus; her unsafe early-morning commutes prompt Chris to clear her car, highlighting her partner’s absence.
- MikeChris’s best friend and Larissa’s boyfriend; repeatedly fails to help her in snow, fueling Chris’s resentment.