The Patsy Trap

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“I don’t know…” whispered Růženka, leaving her doubt unvoiced. “What do you not know?” “If I can believe you or not.” I realized she had a problem with me. To convince her, I needed to emerge from my shell, lay myself bare, and surrender to her mercy. “Please listen to me; you need not say anything, just listen for a while,” I began. “I am 33 years old, Christ’s age, a turning point for every man, especially a dreamer like me. Schopenhauer suggests that all dreamers should die at 33, as they have nothing good to expect. At this age, everything lies before a man stripped of embellishments, revealing failures and missed opportunities. I don’t regret what I’ve done but lament what I could have achieved—due to lack of opportunity, will, or missed chances. I often lie awake, ruminating over my mistakes, hoping that in the remaining half of my life, I will live more fully, without trifles or pretense. I met you at a pivotal moment. I was burned out, merely existing day by day. But now, everything has changed. In your presence, I feel rejuvenated, eager to live, fight, and love. Life begins anew with you, and you are my future.”