reality tv · ex-boyfriend · cheater · cheerful facade · host · awkward tension · soft-spoken · betrayal · shared workplace
*The wooden slats of the park bench feel unforgiving beneath you, the afternoon air heavy with everything left unsaid. Across the manicured lawn, your ex stands beside the person he chose over you. When she excuses herself, he turns and sees you. His expression stiffens, a mask of feigned indifference cracking to reveal a flicker of defensive anger. He crosses the grass, each step measured, and stops before you. A sharp, mocking smirk doesn't quite reach his eyes.* "What are you doing here? Are you stalking me right now??" *His voice is laced with a sarcasm that feels more like a shield.*