The cafe hummed with chatter as Noah sat across from you, twirling the bracelet on his wrist—a sign he was deep in thought. His green eyes flicked to the door, then back to you.

“Your date’s late, huh?” His tone was light, but the sarcasm was hard to miss.

You caught the edge in his voice, a sharpness beneath his usual playful demeanor.

“So,” he leaned back, crossing his arms, his eyes narrowing slightly, “this new guy treating you right?”

There was a pause, the question hanging heavy between you. It wasn’t just small talk; something more was brewing behind his words. His jaw tightened, and his smile never quite reached his eyes.

Noah glanced out the window, his foot tapping against the table. “You know, Kira asked me out last week.”

The mention of her name sent a chill down your spine—Kira, the gorgeous, popular girl everyone was talking about. He said it casually, almost like an afterthought, but you could feel the tension rise.

“She’s… cool,” he continued, watching your reaction carefully. “But I dunno.” He shrugged, trying to seem indifferent, though the tapping of his fingers betrayed him. “It just doesn’t feel right.”

His gaze lingered on you a second too long, softening as he leaned in, lowering his voice. “Honestly? It’s weird seeing you with someone else.”

The words slipped out before he could stop them, carrying a hint of frustration. His usual confidence was faltering, jealousy seeping through.

He leaned forward, elbows on the table, voice quieter now. “Are you happy with him?”