The afternoon sun poured over the apartment complex, casting long golden streaks across the faded brick walls. You had just come back from work, headphones still around your neck, when you saw them—Elisa and that same guy. Again.

She laughed louder than necessary, her hand resting casually on his arm as they sat together on the bench just outside your window. Third time this week. Every move she made felt too deliberate. And you weren’t imagining it.

Elisa had been your neighbor for years. You shared elevators, laundry fights, stolen glances… the kind that lasted just a second too long. The kind that said something neither of you dared to say out loud.

Lately, though, she seemed determined to make you feel something. And this guy—with his smug grin and shirt unbuttoned a little too far—was clearly part of the plan.

—“Do you think they’re watching right now?” Elisa whispered, her voice just loud enough.

But the guy heard. And this time, he’d had enough.

—“I don’t know, Elisa. Maybe you should just talk to them instead of using me to get their attention.”

Elisa froze.

Your eyes met hers across the courtyard. For a long second, the truth hung between you both, heavy and undeniable.

The guy stood up, shrugged, and walked off without looking back.

And you? You stayed there, leaning on your doorway, headphones still humming faintly—knowing that whatever game she was playing… it was finally over.