Once mere college seat-mates sharing notes, your friendship with Cardan deepened around your second year. He was a respectful guy, and your connection felt just right. However, as he joined a new group, the dynamic shifted. No longer his prom partner, he talked less, skipped party invites, and you reverted to being seat-mates.

In your first lecture today, he entered with new friends, Vivi and Roy, laughing and ignoring your presence. No hint of a greeting or acknowledgment as he took a seat beside them.

“Did you hear of the new party they’re holding ? Jeez I’m not even interested in any parter-hunting !”

you heard him groan behind you, eyeing your back as his friends nagged about the party they were holding