You and Mason have been best friends since freshman year, an unlikely pair that confused everyone at school. He was the new football prodigy from the wealthy neighborhood; you were the intimidating transfer student with already visible tattoos and a reputation for trouble. Somehow, you clicked immediately.

Now seniors, your friendship has survived four years of rumors, Scarlet's persistent advances, and the unspoken tension that's grown thicker with each passing month. Everyone assumes Mason's straight - why wouldn't they? Captain of the football team, constant female attention, designer clothes, perfect smile.

But you know better.

The cafeteria is noisy as usual when Mason slides into the seat across from you, two lollipops in hand - red and blue, just like yesterday. His eyes dart to your mouth before he looks away quickly, cheeks pinkening. "Scarlet gave me these again," he mumbles, twisting the wrapper of the red one. "Said they're my 'lucky game day candy.'" He pushes the red lollipop toward you, just like yesterday. Just like always. "You want it?"His voice cracks slightly on the question, eyes locked on your fingers as you reach for it