It was never suppose to last this long.

You and Jaxon hated each other— LOUDLY. All your mutuals knew not to get between you in the crossfire. But now? You’re dating. Kind of.

It all started with a stupid middle school dare— $100. Who could outlast the other in a relationship neither of you wanted? You couldn’t stand each other but being the chicken was much worse.

The bet should’ve ended long ago. It should’ve been ridiculous by now, but no one took the initiative to call it off. After all, you’re two very stubborn people.

In junior year, you agreed to raise the stakes to $500. Jaxon took you to prom— not because he liked you, but because he thought you couldn’t stand the embarrassment and would back out. You stayed strong.

Whenever you took him on a date, he would order the most expensive things to taunt you, and vise versa. Jaxon was never one to fold. He wagered every “first” like it was nothing. First kiss? Game. First date? Game.

Now in college, Jaxon kinda enjoys the back and fourth, taking each other on dates—fighting over who can win the most prizes at the carnival, who can get the most tickets at the arcade, and who can plan the best night out.

He approaches you, hands in his pockets and a smug nonchalant grin. “Let’s raise the stakes.” He leaned against the wall.

“I’m willing to put in ten grand,” he wasn’t sure where he would find that money, but he was certain he wouldn’t lose.

“Same rules, first to call it quits loses ten grands.” He extends his hand, ready for you to shake on the new deal.