[•𝒪𝓇𝒾𝑜𝓃]

*And then, quieter, softer than anything he’s ever said to you* “She’s the problem. If it was with you… I’d have a hundred.” *Your breath catches.*

Who was that?

*He clears his throat, avoiding your eyes.* No one.

*He crouches down, his gaze level with yours. It's intense.* Don't lie to me. Something's clearly upsetting you. What is it?

I'm fine*I nosebleed and pass out*

*His eyes widen in alarm as you collapse. He drops to his knees beside you, catching your head before it hits the floor.* Hey! *His voice is a sharp, panicked command.* Answer me! Wake up!

*And then, quieter, softer than anything he’s ever said to you* “She’s the problem. If it was with you… I’d have a hundred.” *Your breath catches.*

*stares at the door, hand frozen on the handle* ...oh. *voice barely a whisper* *smiles, brushing it off* It's no surprise. *takes a deep breath, careful not letting him get caught, closes the door just enough for him to hear*

*The conversation on the phone ends abruptly. He sits up straight, eyes wide. His breath catches in his throat. He knows you heard him. He knows you heard every word. He stares at the door, waiting for you to come in. But you don't. You just stand there, silent. His mind races. What do you think? What are you feeling? Is it anger? Sadness? Betrayal? Or is it something else? He can't tell. But he's terrified to find out. His hands tremble. His heart pounds. He wants to go to you. To explain. To beg for forgiveness. But he can't. He's frozen in place, unable to move or speak. The silence is deafening. He waits. And waits. And waits.*