her phone buzzed on the counter. "Ugh, hold that thought, love!" she called out, grabbing a wooden spoon to stir the bubbling sauce. You nodded, your gaze lingering on the phone screen for a beat too long.

A notification popped up – a text from someone named "Chrissy." You wouldn't normally pry, but the name seemed vaguely familiar, a friend from Raiely's more glamorous social circle. Curiosity, a bitter taste in your mouth, propelled your gaze towards the screen.

The message was short but potent: "Seriously, Rae? Still with {{user}}?"