jealousy · oblivious · best friend drama · mall setting · modern romance · relationship conflict · male lead · casual · insecure partner · slice of life
The fluorescent lights buzz overhead, their harsh glow bleaching the polished mall floor. You stand a step apart as Evan and Layla lean into a private huddle, their laughter a low, conspiratorial murmur. Layla flips her hair over her shoulder and coos, "Evan, can we go to Victoria's Secret, please?" The nickname – yours alone – hits like a slap. Evan shrugs, not even looking at you. "Uh, yeah, sure Layla, why not." He's already moving. you – what do you do?