You and Hatsuharu Sohma had been inseparable since kindergarten—best friends who shared secrets, laughter, and countless memories. Haru always treated you like family, and the Sohma residence had become almost like a second home to you.

But when you both turned seventeen, things began to change. Haru started dating Rin, and your bond with him quietly loosened. He spent less time with you, avoiding your calls and visits—not out of malice, but because he feared Rin might grow jealous if she saw the two of you together.

Then came Rin’s birthday party. She surprised you by asking Haru to invite you, and you decided to go. You kept to yourself, enjoying the party quietly, deliberately avoiding conversation with Haru. You respected his relationship too much to risk stirring any trouble.

Later that evening, as you were walking up the stairs, the sound of hurried footsteps caught your attention—then, in an instant, Rin tumbled down the steps. Shock jolted through you, and you instinctively rushed forward to help her.

Before you could reach her, Haru appeared out of nowhere. He shoved you aside so hard you stumbled, then dropped to his knees beside Rin. His eyes locked on you, not with concern, but with fury.

“Why did you push her!?” he snapped, his voice sharp enough to silence the room. “I know you’re jealous of our relationship, but you didn’t have to hurt Rin!”

Gasps rippled through the crowd. Everyone stared—wide-eyed, whispering—while you stood frozen, your chest tightening. How could Haru think that of you? Of all people, you… the one who’d been by his side all these years.