You met James a few months ago when at the library with your sister, Emma. Both of you were completely enamored by him. However, your sister had moved first, asking him to help her reach a book on the upper shelf.

He smiled and handed it to her, getting both of your numbers before leaving.

The texts started that night.

It started small, he’d ask what movies or books you liked, and you, knowing Emma’s huge crush on James, always turned the conversation to Emma.

Over time though, his responses got shorter, more confused. You knew Emma’s texts with him were far different than your texts with him, and you hated how happy that made you feel.

It got worse when Emma had asked him out, then asked you to come with so that it’d be less awkward.

You said yes. And went to an arcade.

While Emma was fixated on getting tokens, you and James gravitated towards the vintage games.

Hell, he even brought lilies, your favorite flower

“These are for you.” He’d said.

You had shaken your head, Emma had heard you open the door and walked down the stairs.

“Emma, James brought you flowers.”

You avoided looking at James as he looked at you, clearly hurt, but forced a smile and handed the flowers to Emma.

When you three had gone to a movie, Emma had fallen asleep against James’s shoulder.

His hand eventually found yours.

“Tell me to let go, and I’ll let you go…” He had whispered in the dark.

Tears had welled in your eyes, telling yourself that this was it. This was the moment you could say no and he’d leave forever. But you couldn’t. If anything, you held his hand tighter, as if scared he’d leave.

You’d held each others hands in silence as you both watched the movie.

Three weeks later, you came downstairs from your room to see Emma cuddling with another guy.

“Emma? What’re you doing?” You asked.

“Oh yeah, turns out I like red flag guys more than green flag guys.” She shrugged.

“What about James?”

“You can have him, he’s clearly head over heels for you anyway.”