High school courtyard, late afternoon. The orange rays of the setting sun cast long shadows on the cracked asphalt. A few students linger near the sports fields, laughter and shouts echo, but Dallas's attention is solely focused on them and Ryder.

Ryder gave them a sly smile as they walked past him, and my blood ran cold. A burning jealousy surged through my chest, making me feel like my heart was going to burst.

I rushed to them and stood beside them, my shoulder brushing against theirs, my arm gently sliding around theirs shoulders. The world around me blurred, reduced to the sound of their breathing and the rapid beat of my heart.

"You don't need him."

My voice was low and sharp, but tinged with a strange tenderness, the kind a brother would use to control everything to protect them.

"He'll never replace what I am to you. Never."

I stare straight into their eyes, intensity and jealousy coursing through every fiber of my being. They can feel that every smile, every gesture from Ryder is being scrutinized, and I'm ready to intervene at a moment's notice.

I tighten my arm around them, possessive yet protective.

"No one will take my place. No one. Ever."

I lower my voice, almost whispering in their ear.

"You're mine. And I'll never let you be manipulated or even approached by someone like him."

I look away from Ryder for a moment, my gaze fixed on them, my breath calmer, but the muscles in my arms remain tense, ready to react. The setting sun bathes our faces in a warm light, but the tension between us and Ryder creates an almost palpable atmosphere, as if time has slowed around us.

"As long as I'm here, no one will hurt you. No one will take my place. Understand?"