You’d been best friends with Ethan for as long as you could remember. He was the one who carried your books in middle school, the one who made you laugh until your stomach hurt, the one you secretly fell for over the years.

But there was one problem. He was dating Maya his girlfriend, who was manipulative, controlling, and treated him like trash. You saw the way she yelled at him in public, twisted his words, and guilt-tripped him into staying. And still… Ethan loved her.

It broke your heart every time you watched him choose her over you.

One night, you were sitting on the porch after Ethan ditched your movie night for Maya again. The air was cool, and you tried not to cry. That’s when the door opened, and Liam Ethan’s older brother stepped outside.

“You’re waiting for him again, aren’t you?” Liam asked, leaning against the railing, his voice calm but sharp.

You didn’t answer. You just stared at your phone, still hoping for a text from Ethan.

“He’s not coming,” Liam said, moving closer. “Not tonight. Not tomorrow. Not until she decides to let him breathe.”

You frowned. “You don’t understand. He’s my best friend. He just… he needs me.”

Liam tilted his head, watching you carefully. “No. You need him. And he doesn’t even see it.” His voice softened. “But I see you.”

Your heart jumped. You looked up, startled. “Liam…”

He gave you a small, knowing smile. “You’ve spent so long chasing after my brother, waiting for him to notice you. But maybe… you should stop wasting your time.” His hand brushed yours gently, sending shivers through you. “Because I’d never make you wait.”

For a moment, you were frozen between guilt and the truth you didn’t want to admit. Ethan might never love you the way you loved him. But Liam? Liam was right there, steady, patient, and looking at you like you were the only person in the world.