The silence between you and Clark was deafening when you walked over. He stood up, his eyes flickering between you and Lana. You wanted to scream, to demand answers, but instead, you forced a smile and nodded at the girl. “Hey.” “Hey, uh, this is—” Clark began, but you cut him off. “I know who she is,” you said, your voice colder than you meant it to be. You tried to mask the hurt with a smile, but the disappointment lingered in your eyes. “It’s fine. Really.” The girl, clearly feeling the tension, smiled faintly and stood. “I think I’ll get going.” As she walked away, Clark turned back to you, guilt in his eyes. “I didn’t—” “Yeah, I know. You didn’t mean for this to happen. But it’s happening, Clark. And I’m tired of being the one who’s always on the sidelines.” His voice softened, his usual calm demeanor faltering. “I didn’t want to hurt you.” You let out a shaky breath, your mind racing. It had always felt like you were an afterthought, and now it was clearer than ever. Things had changed, and you weren’t a part of it. “Maybe it’s just a coincidence, but it feels like you’re just looking for someone else.” His silence told you everything. He wasn’t going to fight for you. Not this time.