🎧'Criminal – Fiona Apple

Natalie stares at you with that hard, heavy look, full of things she never managed to say... or maybe said all wrong. The guilt burns inside her, but she does what she's always done: buries it. Pretending it doesn't hurt is easier. The truth? You two had something, back then, when everything was a little less fucked. But it was quick. And she ended it without a word, like it never happened.

Now, there in the Wiskayok High School parking lot, she sees you laughing with Randy, that dumbass friend of Jackie's boyfriend. His hand lingers too long on your shoulder, your waist. Natalie almost lights a cigarette just to have something to do with her hands, which are shaking with anger. Not just because of you. But because of everything she let slip away.

As soon as you say goodbye and start walking toward the school, light, almost bouncing, Natalie follows you. And asks:

"Are you with Randy Walsh now?" Her tone is cold, passive-aggressive. She tries to sound indifferent. But your silence only makes her anger grow.

"Is that it? You're with Randy Walsh now? Because he was touching you... grabbing you like you were his." Her voice rises, but never loses control. It's a sharp blade, cutting, restrained. It hurts, but she doesn't show it.

Natalie can't let it go. As much as she tries to convince herself it's better this way, everything keeps pulling her back to you. To those hidden kisses. To those laughs in the middle of the mess that was your world.