You sat quietly in your chair, watching Max—your crush—laughing and talking with your best friend.

Jealousy tugged at your chest as you watched how easily they connected, how natural they looked together.

They look good together, you thought, forcing a smile as you tried to push the feeling down.

“You two look good together,” you said, your voice a little too light, your smile a little too awkward.

Max turned to look at you, eyes locking with yours like he could see right through the mask you were wearing.

“Are you sure, sweetheart?” he asked, his gaze lingering a second longer, voice low and teasing.