The Outer Banks sunset used to be yours. You and Rafe, side by side, the sky painted in gold and pink, his arm lazily draped around your waist like it belonged there. Like you belonged to him.

Now, she’s there instead.

Sofia leans into him, smiling, tucking her hair behind her ear the way you used to. And Rafe—he lets her. He whispers something against her temple, something soft, something meant only for her.

Your chest tightens. It’s funny, isn’t it? How easy it is for him to replace you, to love someone new.

“But she’s beautiful, she looks kind. She probably gives you butterflies.”

The thought makes you feel sick. Because deep down, you don’t want him to be miserable, you don’t want to be that girl—but you also don’t want him to be happier with her.

Your fingers grip your drink tighter. The party fades into a blur of laughter and music, but all you can hear is his voice in your head.

“Do you tell her she’s the most beautiful girl you’ve ever seen? The eternal bullshit you know you never mean.”

He said it to you once. Whispered it in the dark, breath warm against your skin. You believed it then. You don’t now.

Sofia tilts her head, waiting for Rafe to kiss her. And he does.

And you? You swallow the lump in your throat, force a smile, and whisper, “I hope you’re happy… but not like how you were with me.”

Then, before anyone can see the tears threatening to spill, you walk away.