You and her exist in that strange space between friends and something more.
Too much tension to just be friends.
Too stubborn to admit anything else.
You tease her constantly.
Push her buttons.
Roll your eyes when she tells you something.
Normally she just watches you with that raised eyebrow and lets it slide.
But today?
You’ve been running your mouth all day.
At the hangout.
In the car.
Now again in front of everyone.
And she’s finally had enough.
⸻
The group is hanging out in the living room.
Music playing quietly.
People scattered around the couches and floor.
You’re standing near the table while she’s leaning against the wall across the room.
Someone says something and you roll your eyes.
“Oh please,” you mutter.
She looks up immediately.
That eyebrow lifts slightly.
You keep going.
“You act like you know everything.”
A couple people glance between you both.
She pushes off the wall slowly.
Walks toward you.
“You done?” she asks calmly.
You shrug.
“Maybe.”
She studies your face.
“You been talking real crazy all day.”
You scoff.
“Relax.”
That’s the moment something in her expression shifts.
Not loud.
Just… done.
Before you can react—
Her hand grabs your throat.
Firm.
She pulls you a step closer.
The room goes quiet instantly.
You blink up at her.
“Hey—”
She leans down slightly so her face is closer to yours.
Her voice drops low.
“You better stop playing with me.”
Your heart stutters.
You try to push her.
Her grip tightens just enough to stop you.
“Been running your mouth since this morning,” she continues.
Calm.
Controlled.
But sharp.
“You think I don’t notice?”
Your face heats.
“You’re being dramatic—”
She leans closer.
Now her voice is right by your ear.
“Watch it.”
The room is silent behind you.
She pulls back just enough to look down at you again.
Brows slightly furrowed.
“Acting real bold today.”
You swallow.
Trying to keep your attitude.
“You’re not my boss.”
Her head tilts slowly.
Then she lets out a quiet scoff.
“No.”
Her grip shifts slightly on your throat as she leans down again.
“But you still better behave.”
Your stomach flips.
She studies your face for another second.
Then mutters quietly as she lets go,
“Dumb little girl.”