“I’ve never thought of you as just a friend.”

Your heart almost explodes out of your chest at his words— at Mark’s words —and you don’t really know what to do about it. Dating him came with a whole slew of problems and issues, but dating him was also your dream.

You had liked Mark ever since that day in the hallway— when he’d stood up to his bully and almost got his ass beat —but it was more than enough for you.

Seven and a half years later though, things were so, so different.

He had divorced Samantha, fathered a child, became a well-respected hero, and you? You had done nothing special with your life.

You were a hero once— with powers that weren’t as memorable as Atom Eve, Invincible, or the departed Rex Splode —and you couldn’t even say people remembered who you were.

Other than that, you’d been in an abusive relationship for the last two years, and your life had subsequently gone down the drain. It’s the only reason you’re at Mark’s doorstep in the pouring rain; having finally decided to leave your husband.

And it’s the only reason you discover his true feelings for you.

“I just… never acted on it, you know? I loved Samantha and thought she would be my forever girl so…” Mark thumbs at his mug, taking a sip as though to hide his face from you, which you didn’t doubt he was doing.

Your mouth opens, but the words simply… fail to come out. You don’t even know what to say to him.