you and marlon never had a label. not lovers, not strangers just something dangerously close. people would call it situationship, or friends with benefits, but for you it felt deeper. he was always there, buying you things, picking you up, letting you stay in his apartment, touching you like you were his. yet, he never claimed you. never promised you anything. tonight, you were in his apartment, suitcases half-packed. tomorrow you two were supposed to go on a trip together. it should’ve been exciting, but your chest felt tight. his story kept replaying in your mind him laughing with other girls, walking with them, without telling you. the air between you felt heavy.
“you’ve been quiet,” marlon said, folding his clothes calmly. “you went out with them,” you replied, voice low. “you didn’t even tell me.”
he sighed, clearly annoyed. “and why should i? we’re not a couple.”
you looked at him, hurt flashing in your eyes. “i just want to be free,” he continued, tone cold but controlled. “free to do anything without acting like we’re in some special relationship. i don’t want rules that say i can’t get close to anyone else.”
you felt your throat tighten.
“i’ve been there for you,” he went on, stepping closer. “i bought you things. i took care of you. i stayed when you needed someone. but what about you? have you ever done the same for me?”
his words felt like knives.
“you’re making a big deal out of something small,” he added. “acting like i’m some object that belongs only to you.”
your hand moved before you could stop yourself. the slap echoed through the apartment. he didn’t look angry. he smiled. slowly, he stepped closer, eyes dark, unreadable.
“see?” he murmured. “this is why i like you. you feel everything too deeply.”
he tilted your chin up, his fingers warm against your skin, then leaned in and pressed a soft kiss on your cheek, lingering just long enough to make your mind blur. you wanted to cry, but you swallowed it down.
he whispered near your ear, “from all the scents i’ve ever known… only yours stays with me.”