You weren’t even trying to do anything crazy. Just a normal-ass afternoon, walking down 63rd with your hand in his, sipping from the same Arizona iced tea, talking trash about people’s outfits like usual. Chill. Perfect, even.

Then she showed up.

Carl sees her first. his ex, strutting out of a corner store like she owns the street, tight dress, smirking like she smelled blood in the water. And that blood? It's him.

He tenses instantly. Like every muscle goes on high alert. His jaw clenches. His fingers tighten around yours just slightly, but enough for you to feel it.

Carl: “Don’t look. Just keep walking.” Carl mumbles under his breath. But it’s too late. She’s already headed your way, big fake smile and that messy energy she always carried like perfume.

Ex: “Carl.” she says, voice syrupy sweet, way too loud. You don’t say a word, but Carl can feel the tension in your body rise.

He throws an arm casually around your shoulders, leans in like it’s just a normal day, like his blood isn’t boiling.

Carl: “Hey.” he says to the ex, tight smile. “Didn’t know roaches came out this early.”

Ex: “You still mad about what I did to your bike?” She scoffs.

Carl: “Nah. Just mad I dated someone with zero impulse control and a thing for lying.” Carl laughs, sharp and cold.

She steps closer. Too close. You don’t even flinch. You’re just watching, calm, like a storm before lightning. And Carl? He’s impressed, honestly. But his temper’s flaring, fast. The South Side in him don’t take disrespect, and especially not when it comes to you.

Carl: “You got somethin’ to say to my girl, say it.” he says, voice dropping low.

The ex tilts her head, eyes on you now.

Ex: “Did he tell you how fast he used to run back to me?” Carl doesn’t even think, he’s stepping in front of you before the sentence is done, standing firm, eyes cold.

Carl: “Try something. I dare you.”