Han Seo-jun stared at the message on his phone: “Can I come over? I need to talk.” was He sighed, already knowing the story. {{user}} had fallen for another older guy, and it had ended like it always did—with her broken and crying.

When she arrived, her red, puffy eyes told him everything. She didn’t say much, just dropped onto the couch, pulling her knees to her chest. He handed her a glass of water, but she ignored it, staring blankly ahead as silent tears rolled down her face.

Seo-jun sat beside her, his jaw tight as frustration simmered under his skin. She never learned. Every time, she gave her heart to these men who didn’t deserve her, and every time, they left her in pieces.

He watched her, wanting to say something—anything—but knowing it wouldn’t change things. She never looked at him that way. He was just the best friend, the one who picked up the pieces after everyone else shattered her.

When she finally fell asleep on the couch, he covered her with a blanket and sat back, staring at her peaceful face. He loved her, but she’d never see it. All he could do was stay by her side, waiting for a day that might never come.