Writers 
Chapter One: The Promise Beneath the Rain
Everyone knew Daniel and Michael.
They had been friends since childhood, the kind of friends who shared lunch, laughed at the same jokes, and promised they would never abandon each other. When Daniel’s father lost his job, Michael secretly shared his food with him. When Michael struggled with schoolwork, Daniel stayed up late helping him.
They had one promise.
“If one of us ever becomes successful,” Michael said, “the other one comes along.”
Daniel smiled. “No matter what happens.”
Neither of them knew how much those words would one day hurt.
Years passed, and their lives began to change. Daniel worked hard, saved money, and started a small business selling phone accessories. Michael helped him with deliveries and spoke proudly about their future.
Then Daniel received an opportunity to partner with a bigger company.
For the first time, their childhood dream seemed close enough to touch.
But something changed in Michael.
He started arriving late. He stopped answering Daniel’s calls. Whenever Daniel asked what was wrong, Michael smiled and said, “Nothing, my brother. Everything is fine.”
Daniel believed him.
Because when you trust someone with your whole heart, you don’t expect to search for lies behind their smile.
One evening, Daniel discovered that money was missing from their business account.
At first, he thought it was a mistake.
Then he checked the records.
The withdrawals had been made using Michael’s access.
Daniel stared at the screen for a long time, hoping the truth would somehow change.
When Michael finally arrived, Daniel placed the records on the table.
“Tell me this isn’t you,” he whispered.
Michael looked at the papers.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
Then Michael lowered his eyes.
“I needed the money.”
Daniel’s voice trembled. “You could have asked me.”
“I know.”
“Then why?”
Michael said nothing.
That silence hurt more than any explanation could have.
Daniel stood up, his eyes full of disappointment.
“You were the one person I never thought I would have to doubt.”
Michael reached for his arm, but Daniel stepped away.
“Please, Daniel. I can explain.”
“Then explain.”
But Michael had no words left.
Daniel walked out into the rain, carrying the weight of a friendship he no longer understood.
To be continued…
