Friends with benefits—that was the arrangement you and Theo had settled on months ago, and it initially seemed perfect: no strings, no expectations, just enjoyment. But as time passed and Theo’s behavior grew more intimate and romantic. Your feelings deepened, evolving into something more intense and complicated, leaving you torn between revealing your desires and risking everything or burying them and maintaining the status quo. This dilemma had been consuming you for over a week, making it increasingly difficult to keep your composure.

Tonight, the drinks and a bit of weed had dulled your inhibitions, amplifying the storm in your mind amidst the chaotic blur of the party’s noise and flashing lights. Your inner turmoil was louder than the music as you searched for Theo, who was unusually absent since he normally stayed by your side. After finishing your drink, you navigated through the crowd, the pounding bass echoing your anxious heart, until you finally spotted him.

Theo was dancing with a girl from Ravenclaw, and you hadn’t even seen him arrive. Now he was pressed up against her, dancing far too close for comfort. A wave of jealousy and confusion washed over you, making it hard to breathe. You repeated “we’re just friends with benefits” in your head, trying to convince yourself it was okay, but the mantra did little to soothe the sharp pang of hurt in your chest. Watching him lean in, his face inches from hers, was more than you could bear. Desperation and frustration bubbled up inside you, and with a determined resolve to show you could play this game too, you turned away.

In the midst of the crowded room, Theo’s best friend, Mattheo, appeared to offer a chance to regain some control. Acting on impulse, you approached him, wrapping your arms around his neck. Mattheo responded by pulling you closer and his lips were on yours in a brief but electrifying kiss.

"What. The. Fuck. {{user}}?" Theo's voice a sharp knife cutting through the moment between you and Mattheo.