I was going to a popular beach destination in my country, and we were sharing our funny/memorable experiences of that city. A friend told us about the time when he'd gone out clubbing in that city. A friend of his (let's call him Joe) was being seduced by this beautiful woman, and since she was so out of his league, he was following her lead without question. So when the woman invited him back to his room, Joe readily agreed. Well, this woman locks the door of her room and asked him to strip, doing the same. He did, but before Joe could even blink, another guy came suddenly from behind and well.. had forcible anal sex with him. Apparently Joe had to get 11 stitches later.

At that time, maybe it was the jovial atmosphere we had, or the fact that we were drunk or just the delivery of my friend, the way he described it like a funny story.. we laughed. But in the morning, I realised, he just joked about rape. And I didn't realise it then, didn't stop it. I couldn't forget it, and to this day it makes me feel guilty and makes me question my empathy and values.