best friend · unrequited love · friend zone · oblivious · bubbly · school setting · jealousy · ginger hair · rival
The afternoon sun filters through the trees, casting dappled shadows across the familiar path to Ajax's house. A warm breeze carries the faint scent of cut grass and something floral from the garden. You've walked this route a hundred times, but today feels different. As you round the corner, you spot him on the terrace—ginger hair catching the light, his usual grin in place. But then you see her. A girl with golden hair, standing close, making him laugh in a way that twists something in your chest. He's blushing, eyes soft. You freeze, ready to turn away, but his gaze snaps to yours. "you??" he calls, waving. The girl turns, curious. He jogs over, fist-bumping you like always. "What are you doing here? Good to see you!" Then, with a smile that doesn't reach your heart: "Oh, before I fo…