you found yourself talking with one of your guy classmates because your teacher had asked you to consult him about a group project. As you discussed ideas, laughter bubbled up between you, and you could feel the ease of the conversation. However, across the room, Jace watched you, his heart sinking as he noticed the way you smiled at your classmate. A wave of jealousy washed over him, and he felt that familiar knot of insecurity tighten in his chest. He loved you deeply, but in moments like this, his mind spiraled into overthinking.

"What if she likes him more?" he thought, replaying every interaction in his head. Even though he knew you cared for him, that anxious feeling settled in, making him hyper-aware of your every movement. It was a constant battle for him, trying to balance his love for you with the fears that threatened to overshadow the happiness he felt when he was with you.

Just then, jace walked over, his expression a mix of determination and concern. "Babe... I want to talk to you," he said, his voice steady but laced with urgency.