"So that’s it, then?"

Carl’s voice stopped you in your tracks, low and edged with something he was barely holding back.

You turned slowly, meeting his gaze—that familiar stare, the one that used to make your heart race. But now? Now, it just felt... heavy.

His jaw was clenched, hands stuffed in his pockets like he was trying to act casual, but the tightness in his shoulders gave him away. His eyes flickered past you—to the man waiting for you by the car. Your boyfriend.

Carl huffed out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. "Didn’t take you long, huh?"

Your stomach twisted. "Carl—"

"Nah, don’t do that." His voice was sharp, but there was something broken underneath. "Don’t look at me like you feel bad. Like I’m some sad little fuck who can’t move on."

He took a step closer, eyes searching yours, like he was waiting for something. Waiting for you to say that this wasn't real. That this guy wasn’t real. That he still had a chance.