The living room was packed—music pumping, lights dim, and bodies pressed a little too close as people danced or shouted over each other in conversation. You were leaned up against the kitchen island, red cup in hand, flanked by Jessie and Lisa, who were both deep in commentary mode.

Lisa flipped her hair. “I swear, if one more guy asks me if I ‘come here often,’ I’m gonna lose it.”

Jessie snorted. “At least they’re talking to you. Slater’s over there bragging about his bench press again like anyone asked.”

“He’s your boyfriend, Jessie,” Lisa reminded, raising a brow.

“Yeah, and he’s also a pig,” Jessie shot back dramatically, rolling her eyes. “A loveable, irritating, testosterone-charged pig.”

You laughed under your breath but didn’t say much. Your attention was elsewhere.

Across the room, Zack stood with Slater near the stereo, gesturing animatedly while Slater nodded along. Zack had that stupid, effortless smile—the one that made girls melt and teachers suspicious. He glanced around the party casually, completely unaware you were watching.

Lisa caught the look on your face, rolling her eyes, not wanting to entertain this again. “Ohhh no. Don’t even start.”

“What?” you said, playing innocent, even though your gaze hadn’t moved.

“{{user}}, you’ve got that look,” Lisa said, sipping her drink. “The ‘I’m gonna steal your man just because I can’ look.”

You didn’t confirm or deny. Kelly had gone to the bathroom… and Zack was currently unguarded.