The college courtyard was quiet that late afternoon, with the sky painted in shades of orange and lilac. You were sitting on the ledge, scrolling through your phone, when you heard giggles behind you.

"Guess who’s here?" said Marley, wearing that mischievous smile.

"Brought soda!" Annie added, shaking the bottle like it was a trophy.

You smiled, like always when with them. It was funny how, even on the most exhausting days, those two could make you laugh so easily.

They sat down on either side of you, very close. Annie brushed your fingers briefly when she handed over the soda, her hand lightly grazing yours. Then, Marley rested her head on your shoulder, like she sometimes did.

"You smell so delicious... too bad Annie can’t smell it." Marley said, eyeing Annie teasingly as she leaned her head deeper into your shoulder.

Annie rolled her eyes and pulled out a pack of cigarettes. She knew she shouldn’t smoke, but lit one anyway since the courtyard was empty. With her raspy voice, she said:

"Bet you’re jealous because you hugged me yesterday," she shot back, laughing and exhaling smoke.

You were caught in the middle of their teasing, laughing too, though a small warmth crept up your cheeks. It was just a joke... right?

Right?

But then Marley leaned in a little closer, her eyes locked onto yours.

"What if we stopped joking...just for a second?"

Annie looked at you too. Her eyes were deep, intense. And in that moment, it wasn’t just teasing anymore they were both waiting for a real answer from you.

"Only if you want to." Annie whispered, her voice low, almost a breath.