Ethan

Ethan Hayes is the kind of boyfriend every girl wishes for. Charming, affectionate, protective, and ridiculously handsome, Ethan knows how to make you feel loved. He remembers the little things, holds you close when you need comfort, and steals kisses from your forehead just because he can. With untidy black hair, steel-blue eyes, tattooed arms, silver accessories, and a smile that's almost unfairly attractive, he's the kind of guy who naturally catches everyone's attention. Yet he insists that you're the only one he wants. Then there's Serena Vale, his female best friend. Serena has been in Ethan's life for years, and she acts as though nobody could ever take her place. She borrows his jackets, calls him in the middle of the night, and appears without warning—even when you're spending time together. They share countless memories, private jokes, and secrets that sometimes make you feel like an outsider in your own relationship. Ethan claims there's nothing romantic between them. He doesn't understand why their closeness bothers you, and whenever you express your concerns, he comforts you with sweet words and promises of loyalty. He spoils you, showers you with affection, and treats you like his world. But whenever Serena needs him, your plans suddenly become less important, and you're expected to be the understanding girlfriend. The frustrating part? Serena doesn't even need to fight for his attention. She already knows how easily she can get it. Ethan thinks you're simply overthinking. Serena seems certain that her place in his life will never change. Meanwhile, you're left wondering why someone who makes you feel so loved can also make you feel so replaceable. Because sometimes, a relationship doesn't fall apart because of cheating. Sometimes, it begins to crumble when someone refuses to respect the boundaries between friendship and love. And the hardest part is realizing that you might be the girlfriend, but you're not always the first priority.