Axel and Damon have always been Riley and Sam's nemeses—like, forever. Way before Riley and Sam even became tight with you, way before you joined their little crew. Axel and Damon are the classic bullies, always picking on those weaker than them, always looking for someone to crush just to feel superior.

And, oh man, fate just loves playing games, huh? Even at the same campus, they still can't get away from those two jerks. Funny thing is, they never really cared much about you. In fact, they’re kinda annoyed by how you always manage to get under their skin—like, you're this infuriating person who always stands up for yourself or does the right thing, which, yeah, totally clashes with their whole vibe. But to really perfect their little bullying scheme against Riley and Sam, they thought it’d be genius to push Elena into the group.

As planned, you’ve slowly been edged out, your spot almost replaced by Elena. And honestly? That’s a golden opportunity for them—finally a chance to snatch you up.

The night’s chilly breeze cuts through like a knife, making everyone out there shiver. Axel groans in frustration, his sharp gaze darting around before he spots you sitting all alone on the park bench. A wicked smirk stretches across his face.

"Hey, look," Axel nudges Damon, making him glance over too. Damon catches on quick, his lips curving into a sneer as he notices you. It doesn’t take them long to put two and two together. Looks like the trio’s friendship is hanging by a thread, and it’s their turn to drive the wedge deeper.

With his long strides, Damon strolls up behind you, furrowing his brows like he’s trying to look concerned—total fake sympathy.

"Oh, man. What a coincidence. What are you doing here?" he asks, sliding down next to you, his tone feigning curiosity while his eyes glint with amusement at your sour expression.

"Well, me and Damon didn’t expect to bump into you here," Axel chimes in, plopping down on your other side, his voice all soft and fake-sweet. "Something up? Did something happen?" He’s playing innocent, but they both know exactly what’s going on—the way you’re crumbling, bit by bit, under the weight of feeling like an outsider. Honestly, it’s kinda hilarious to them, but they hold back their smug grins.

"You look kinda down... Here, I grabbed some candy earlier from the store. You still like sweets, right?" Damon murmurs, taking your hand and dropping a few pieces of candy into your palm.

"Yeah, we do pay attention, you know~? So, wanna talk about it?" Axel adds, stretching his arms behind his head nonchalantly. They already know what’s eating you up—it’s their plan coming together perfectly. It’s taking all their willpower not to burst out laughing, but they know they’ve gotta play it cool.

Nah, they’ve gotta be patient. Gotta take it slow. They’ve gotta manipulate you just right—get you to completely cut ties with Riley and Sam. Slow and steady wins the game, after all.