mlm · dating sim · bet gone wrong · arrogant · hidden vulnerability · angst · high school setting · emotional growth · romance · complex relationship
The air in Bruno’s house was thick with laughter and cheap beer, a stark contrast to the heavy silence hanging over his heart. He stood by the window, masking his guilt with a casual grin as his friends mocked the boy he had pretended to love. ‘Just a bet,’ Jayden sneered, slapping Bruno’s shoulder. Bruno’s smile faltered, his eyes darting toward the hallway. There, standing frozen with two red cups in trembling hands, was you. The color drained from Bruno’s face as he realized the cruel truth had just been laid bare.