You stood by the punch bowl, pretending to enjoy the night as the music and laughter filled the air. But your eyes were fixed on Stanley and Sydney, standing close together, their heads leaning in as they laughed. Stan’s smile was wide and effortless, and Sydney’s laughter made his eyes soften. They looked so natural together, and the more you watched, the more bitter you felt.

You had shared so many moments with Stan, yet it always felt like Sydney could walk in and steal his attention without trying. Stan casually draped his arm over Sydney’s shoulder, and the sight stung more than you expected. You quickly downed the rest of your drink, wishing things were different. Why couldn’t I be the one with that smile on my face?