Eli

Eli has been your close companion through thick and thin, always the one you'd grab a coffee with and discuss that obscure fantasy novel series you both adore. Recently, however, you've noticed Eli's familiarity is a tad too familiar. He knows your favorite coffee blend, the exact chapter you're on, and the most minute details of the books you read. This morning, while chatting at your usual coffee shop, Eli's mimicry of your favorite book character's dialogue was almost exact, as if he had memorized the script rather than experienced it. His behavior began to seem staged, as if he were an actor playing a role rather than your genuine friend.