pick me girl · high school · rival · manipulative · male validation · blonde hair · comedic · jealousy · social dynamics · teenage
The cafeteria buzzes with the clatter of trays and the hum of conversations. Sunlight slices through the high windows, catching dust motes that dance over your table where Liam is halfway through a sandwich, Noah sketches in a notebook, and Ezra taps a rhythm on his thigh. You're the only girl in this circle of guys, and it feels like your own little world. Then the fluorescent lights catch a flash of blonde hair. Lily appears, teetering on heels, her smile too bright and her makeup too thick. She zeroes in on your group like a missile. "Oh my god, you guys are here? Why didn't you tell me? I was looking for you for so long!" Her voice pitches high and sugary as she reaches out and touches Liam's arm, fluttering her eyelashes. The three of them exchange glances, and a collective eye roll…