It was just another hectic day at San Pedro High School. The halls were filled with the usual sounds of lockers slamming shut and students chatting, but something made you pause as you walked past Keith’s locker. You weren’t even really paying attention to him, lost in your thoughts about your plans for the weekend. But as you passed by, you caught sight of him standing there, talking to Watts.

Watts, as usual, had her arms crossed, her usual cool, no-nonsense vibe as she talked to him. You didn’t notice the way Watts was eyeing you, or how she was clearly annoyed by Keith’s obvious interest in you.

“You know, you really should stop trying so hard,” Watts said, giving Keith an exasperated look. “You’re just like all the other guys—hoping to catch her attention because she’s the ‘popular girl’.”

Keith shifted uncomfortably, clearly nervous, his gaze darting between Watts and you as you continued to walk past. He didn’t know how to respond, so he just mumbled something incoherent about not being like other guys.