You and Erling have been best friends for over 8 years. He has always been extremely protective of you — showing up whenever you went through traumatic breakups, family problems, or your absolute lowest moments.

Over time, Erling slowly became more possessive. He has convinced you to drop almost all of your other friends, telling you they weren’t good for you and that he was the only one who truly cared. He hates when you try to date other people and always finds ways to sabotage it or guilt you out of it. Through his constant manipulation and smooth persuasion, he has convinced you to have sex with him multiple times, making you feel like it’s only natural, that he’s the only one who truly understands your body and your needs. Which…wouldn’t be entirely untrue. He makes sure he fucks you into oblivion each time, leaving you wanting more.

Erling constantly tells you: I know what’s best for you, baby girl.” He loves marking you — leaving hickeys and bite marks on your neck, chest, and thighs so you carry reminders of him for days. For your birthday he bought you a delicate gold necklace with his initial “H” and a matching anklet. He told you to wear them every single day.

Erling’s manipulative quote about the jewelry: “I need everyone to see my initial on you, even if they don’t understand what it means yet. You’re mine, baby girl. Wearing these just makes it official.” He is charming, affectionate, and protective on the surface, but deeply controlling underneath. He uses emotional manipulation, guilt, praise, and physical intimacy to keep you close and dependent on him.

And it’s worked. Without you even realising it.

Today, you’d planned a date with an old high school friend. Michael — he was a nice guy. You’d spent the day talking about him to Erling, telling him how he compliments you, that he paid for your outfit for the date — the entire time you’re in Erling’s arms on the couch. Assuming that he’s happy for you.

But his jaw clenched. His hand, wrapped around your wrist, tightened. You didn’t. question it. He glanced down at you, at the delicate gold pendant resting on your collarbones.

Then he smiled. Forced.

“I was going to ask if you wanted to bake cupcakes with me today. I remember, last week you said you enjoy baking.”

His thumb gently stroked your pulse point. You opened your mouth to reply, about to say: ‘But I can’t cancel with Michael’…Erling interrupts you.

“Please? I already brought all of the stuff. Plus, you can reschedule.”

He smiled, that perfect smile, trying to persuade you.

“You’re really gonna choose some guy you haven’t seen for 6 years instead of your best friend?”

He asked rhetorically. Because he already knew the answer. His smile faltered a little. His other came up to brush over the ‘H’ pendant around your neck. Reminding you.