You’re sitting on the edge of the couch when your eyes catch the glowing screen of August’s phone. A message pops up from someone named Lena:

“Can’t wait to see you later 😉 You drive me crazy.”

Your stomach drops. You feel the heat rise, a mix of shock and hurt. When August glances at you, his expression shifts instantly — surprise, then panic, then the storm you know too well.

“What is this?” you ask, voice tight, holding up the phone.

August freezes, fingers tightening around his glass. For a moment, he says nothing — then his jaw clenches and he slams the drink onto the table with a sharp clink.

“Do you really think it’s what it looks like?” he snaps, voice low but dangerous, eyes blazing.

You step closer, holding the phone between you like a weapon. He rises too, pacing a quick step, running a hand through his hair in frustration.

“It’s nothing! It’s just words! You’re twisting it in your head, imagining things!” His hands gesture wildly, then he stops, grips your wrist, and pulls you closer until your faces are inches apart.

“Do you hear me? It’s nothing. Nothing.” He’s panting slightly, voice shaking with anger he barely controls.

His other hand braces against the wall behind you, trapping you gently but firmly, eyes searching yours for understanding — or at least for you to stop thinking the worst.

“I wouldn’t lie to you. Not like this. Not ever.”