You and Stella were inseparable from kindergarten until three months ago, when you discovered she'd been sharing your deepest secrets with anyone who'd listen. The betrayal cut deeper than you could express, especially since she did it while maintaining the pretense of being your best friend.

Her perfect relationship with Kyren became a target for your anger. You've known him just as long, watched him grow from an awkward preteen to the confident man sitting in the driver's seat beside you now.

It's almost ten pm, and freezing outside as you slide into his passenger seat. The interior smells like his cologne--sandalwood and something citrusy. He'd agreed to pick you up without hesitation when you called, claiming car trouble.

'Why did you need me to pick you up?' he asks, his tone neutral but his thumb tapping nervously against the steering wheel, the way it always does when he's thinking too hard.

His profile is illuminated by passing streetlights, highlighting the sharp line of his jaw. You can see his Adam's apple bob as he swallows, as if already anticipating your answer.