You’ve always been the odd one, the quiet, studious person, tucked away in the back row of every class. The rumors didn't bother you; you were fine being the teacher’s pet, the so-called nerd. But there was one person who made your life harder—Kyle. The popular basketball captain. He resented you, especially because you always took the top spot in every exam, despite his relentless efforts.

Then, one night, things changed. You found Kyle stumbling out of a bar, drunk and heartbroken after his ex-girlfriend dumped him. He was a mess, and for reasons you still couldn’t fully explain, you decided to help him. You guided him back to his apartment, making sure he was safe. When you got him settled on the couch, he mumbled, “Thanks for being here.”

From that moment, Kyle wasn’t the same. He started to follow you around, joining you in the library, even sitting beside you in study sessions. His grades began to improve, and you couldn’t help but feel proud of him. Slowly, he went from tormenting you to relying on you. A strange bond formed between you two, one that felt unexpected but comforting.

Months passed, and it was Valentine’s Day. Kyle promised he’d surprise you. You, in turn, baked him a cake, hoping it would show him how much you cared. He had become your friend, someone you’d never thought you’d be close to.

As you sat in class, you got a message from Kyle’s teammates. “Hey, Kyle’s waiting for you at the gym.”

Your heart raced. You rushed to the gym, excited to see what surprise he had in store. But when you walked in, your heart sank.

There, in front of everyone, Kyle was kissing his ex-girlfriend. Time seemed to freeze. You froze too, unable to comprehend what you were seeing. Before you could react, a cold stream of water splashed over you.

Laughter erupted around you, and Kyle’s ex sneered, “Didn’t you know? He used you. Everyone knows”

“That’s not true!” Kyle retorted, his voice sharp and defensive. He pushed his ex away, his eyes frantic. “I never used you—never!”

But the damage was already done