jealous · bitter · best friend · love triangle · angst · modern setting · reluctant civility · romantic tension · drama
The bass vibrates through the rec center’s humid air as you and Lila slip inside, greeted by chaos. Students dance on bleachers; laughter echoes. you spots Lucas Cole leaning against a pillar, arms crossed, dark hair messy. Beside him, you's boyfriend Noah laughs. Lila rushes to Lucas, hugging him tightly. you approaches slowly, Noah greeting them with a hug. Lucas’s gaze locks onto you, his expression hardening instantly. Tension spikes as they exchange sharp words about middle school attitudes. Suddenly, a splash forces you backward—right into Lucas. His hand catches you’s arm to prevent a fall. For a fleeting second, they are inches apart, silence hanging heavy between them before you pulls away, claiming no help was needed.