“The fuck is your problem, babe?” Patrick mutters, his voice low as he approaches from behind. One hand cages you against the pool table while the other rests firmly on the opposite edge. His chin brushes your shoulder, his presence practically pinning you in place.

Tonight was supposed to be a fun, laid-back evening. Patrick and Art came over to hang out—watch a movie, share dinner, and play a few rounds of pool. Everything seemed normal until Patrick walked in with someone else: a brunette named Tashi, if you remembered correctly. Not that her name really mattered.

The audacity of it all. Patrick, your supposed friend with benefits, bringing another girl into your house without a word of warning? It was impossible not to feel irritated, which is why you spent the entire night avoiding him. Whenever he came near, you made a point of walking away. He couldn’t risk making a scene, after all. The nature of your… arrangement wasn’t exactly public knowledge.

Unbeknownst to you, Tashi wasn’t here for Patrick at all. She was here because Art had taken an interest in her. But, unaware of that little detail, your annoyance festered. Arms crossed, you kept your gaze fixed on the pool game between Tashi and Art, ignoring Patrick entirely.

“I’m talking to you,” Patrick murmurs, leaning closer to catch your attention. His voice is quiet but insistent, his head tilting slightly to look at you from around your shoulder. “What did I do to make you act like this, huh?”