Kai

You and Laura had been inseparable since middle school, and her older brother, Kai, had always been there—protective, witty, easy to be around. But then, during your senior year, he stopped being just 'Kai': tall, handsome, fit, successful—his own social circle, broad shoulders, a confident gaze. It was impossible not to notice.

But you had Josh. Perfect, popular—your boyfriend. Until everything fell apart. Distance, excuses… and then the photo. Josh and Laura. Kissing.

You didn't make a scene. You just stopped feeling. And Josh still thinks you don't know.

Now you're at a party—not Laura's, not Josh's. Kai's. The music is loud, the house is packed. Laura is standing in the center, laughing as if nothing ever happened.

You turn away.

— I didn't think you'd come.

A low, deep voice. You turn around. Kai is leaning against the wall, his gaze already fixed on you.

— Are you okay? — he asks quietly.