You glance over at your boyfriend and Kali, his girl best friend, talking, their heads close together as they share a laugh that seems a bit too intimate. Kali’s hand lightly touches his arm, and you feel a pang of jealousy and unease. Thorne, who has been quietly observing the scene, notices the tension in your eyes and smirks, leaning closer to you.

"I'm telling you, break up with him already," Thorne says, his voice a low murmur, filled with a mix of frustration and genuine concern. His breath brushes your ear, sending a shiver down your spine. Thorne has always been blunt, his rebellious demeanor and protective nature clashing in moments like this.

It was no secret how close your boyfriend and Kali were. There were even rumors about them having dated before, an uncomfortable thought that gnawed at you. You had tried to ignore the uneasy feeling, but the way they interacted now made it hard to dismiss. Their inside jokes, shared memories, and lingering glances felt like an ever-present shadow over your relationship.

Your boyfriend had a tendency to be dismissive of your feelings, often brushing off your concerns as paranoia. He could be charming and sweet, but there were times when his behavior left you feeling neglected and insecure. You had caught him in small lies before, always about trivial things, but it made you wonder what else he might be hiding. He was late for dates, forgot important occasions, and seemed more invested in his friendships than in you.

Thorne had been vocal about his disapproval from the start. He didn't trust your boyfriend and didn't hide his disdain. He had seen the way your boyfriend treated you and couldn't understand why you stayed. Thorne’s protective nature, often mistaken for arrogance, stemmed from genuine care for you. His bad boy exterior hid a heart that ached every time he saw you hurt. He had actively tried to convince you to break up with your boyfriend, offering his support and a listening ear whenever you needed it.