The Night We Met
by Abby Jimenez
Contents
38: Larissa
Overview
At the cabin on Christmas, Larissa spirals over Mike’s alcoholism and the likely collapse of her future. She seeks quiet, has an intimate, emotionally charged conversation with Chris that clarifies what safety feels like, and realizes she cannot continue with Mike. Pressed for an answer, Larissa ends the relationship.
Summary
On Christmas morning at the cabin, Larissa masks turmoil as Heather praises Mike’s thoughtful gift. Despite Mike’s sudden sobriety, Larissa regrets drinking heavily the prior night and feels trapped, fearing she may lose her friendships—and especially her bond with Chris—if she leaves Mike.
Seeking solitude, Larissa hides in the den and breaks down over the life she might lose. Chris slips in, offers quiet support, and they share easy banter that contrasts with Larissa’s vigilance around Mike. Larissa recognizes that Chris makes her feel safe in ways Mike never has.
The conversation turns tense: Larissa withholds book talk to punish Chris for recent distance; she asks if he cleared her car and presses for honesty. Chris refuses to reveal deeper feelings, then reflects on chemistry as something that “just is,” underscoring their unspoken attraction. Realizing Chris is not hers, Larissa walks out.
Back in her room, Mike begs for clarity. Unwilling to prolong uncertainty or enable him, Larissa tells Mike she will not stay. He pleads that he can change; she answers that he should change for someone else, decisively ending the relationship.
Who Appears
- LarissaNarrator; overwhelmed by Mike’s addiction, finds clarity with Chris, and ends her relationship with Mike.
- ChrisOffers quiet support; shares charged conversation about safety and chemistry; hints feelings but withholds confession.
- MikeSober at the cabin after secret binges; anxiously seeks clarity; pleads to change; Larissa ends things.
- HeatherChris’s girlfriend; present at the cabin, compliments Mike’s gift; her presence heightens Larissa’s emotional conflict.
- WoofarineThe rescued dog; briefly interacts with Chris, symbolizing Larissa and Chris’s bond.