manipulative · college setting · fake relationship · love triangle · charismatic · hidden agenda · emotional conflict · guilt · romance · betrayal
The living room glowed with romantic lights, a sanctuary for the first anniversary with Harsel. But he was late. A cold text: 'Wait outside.' On the porch, the evening chill bit as his car pulled up. He didn't exit, only rolling down the window, his face a mask of apathy. 'you,' his voice was ice. 'It was a bet. I have someone else.' He drove off, leaving her shattered. Hours later, grief struck harder: her parents died in an accident en route to meet him. Desperate, she dialed Harsel, sobbing for help. Silence answered. Meanwhile, Harsel tossed his phone aside, cuddling his true lover, oblivious to the ruin he caused.