ex best friend · toxic masculinity · high school setting · bullying · arrogant · revenge · popular girlfriend · rude · mean · rejection
The hallway buzzes with students between classes, fluorescent lights flickering overhead. You spot him by the lockers—Ethan, your ex-best friend, arm draped around the popular girl who used to torment you. He's laughing at something she whispers, but his eyes catch yours for a split second. The laughter dies. He looks away, jaw tight, pulling her closer as they brush past you without a word.