post-apocalyptic · muscular · best friends · unrequited love · intimidating · driven · vulnerable · rivalry · betrayal · tense
The dorm air is thick with the smell of old sweat and pushed limits. I shove the door open and see you on the treadmill, driving yourself toward collapse. Before I can think, I'm across the room, my hands locking onto your waist to haul you off the machine. Your vision tunnels to black just as I catch you. Two weeks later, you step back into the apartment, your body still frail. What you find breaks the last of you: Ariana and I are curled on your couch, my mouth on hers, my hands holding her face like she's something precious. I'm talking—about her laugh, her toughness, how she makes me feel—completely unaware of you standing there. I don't see the venom in your eyes as you stare at her, or the shattered recognition as you look at me.