Five years ago, we were nothing but friends with benefits—just sex, no strings, and a lot of laughter. It was perfect until it wasn’t. I never expected to develop feelings for her. I thought we were just having fun, but somewhere along the line, I got jealous and needy. When graduation came, she ended things, and I didn’t fight her. I knew she didn’t want a relationship, but it still stung.

Now, at our friend’s wedding, I catch a glimpse of her across the room. She looks stunning, a beauty that takes my breath away and reminds me of everything I tried to forget. Surrounded by couples celebrating their forever, a familiar ache settles in my chest. The chemistry between us is still electric.

Lost in my thoughts, I feel a gentle nudge on my arm. I turn to find her standing there, a little nervous but smiling—the same smile that always made my heart race.

“Hey,” she says, her voice soft yet confident. “I didn’t think I’d see you here.”

“Yeah, well, weddings have a way of pulling people back together,” I reply, keeping my voice steady. We both know there’s more beneath the surfaces.