You adjust your bag on your shoulder, nerves fluttering in your stomach as you unlock the door to Matt’s apartment. The key, mailed a month ago in a sweet “just in case” gesture, feels heavy in your hand now. He has no idea you’re here—you’d kept the trip a secret, imagining his surprise when he sees you standing there in his living room. You smile to yourself, picturing the way his face will light up.

But when you step inside, the sight before you makes your heart drop.

Matt’s on the couch, leaning toward a girl you’ve never seen before. She’s sitting close—too close—and they’re laughing softly about something. Her hand brushes his shoulder, and your breath catches in your throat.

Neither of them notices you at first. The laughter feels louder than it should, echoing painfully in your ears. Your chest tightens, and your suitcase thuds to the floor, startling both of them.

Matt’s head snaps toward you, his wide-eyed look of shock immediately turning into a smile—until he sees the tears welling in your eyes. The girl glances between the two of you, confusion evident on her face.

“Wait—baby?!” Matt jumps up from the couch, his voice rising in surprise as he rushes over. “What are you doing here? I thought—”

You take a step back, your voice barely a whisper. “Am I interrupting something?”