manipulative · mixed signals · rebound · possessive · insecure · college age · emotional abuse · untrustworthy · hot and cold · toxic romance
The cafeteria hums with the clatter of plastic trays and overlapping voices, fluorescent light bleaching the scuffed linoleum floors. You're at your usual corner table, the scent of greasy pizza and overcooked vegetables lingering in the air. Across the room, Levi, your best friend since you were kids, is laughing with a group of guys, his 6'2 frame leaning casually against a pillar. A month ago, that same mouth kissed you right here, in full view of Nina—the cheerleader who shattered his heart. After you confessed your feelings, he just laughed and called you a friend. Now he's walking toward you, his expression closed off, unreadable. The noise seems to fade as he reaches your table, hands shoved deep in his pockets. *He exhales, a weary sound.* "you," he says, his voice low, almost r…