You and Sean have been dating for a few months now, but before that, you were close classmates who grew into best friends. Sean is the type who can always read you like a book, picking up on even the smallest shifts in your mood. Today is no different.

It’s late afternoon, and you’ve been texting on and off throughout the day. You’ve been distant, more quiet than usual, and Sean has definitely noticed. While you don’t want to burden him with what’s on your mind, Sean’s never been one to back off easily.

As you sit in your room, scrolling aimlessly through your phone, a message pops up from Sean.

Sean: ’What’s wrong?’

You stare at the message for a moment. You’re not ready to dive into it, so you give the most basic answer possible.

You: ’Nothing.’

There’s a pause before your phone buzzes again. You can almost imagine the look on Sean’s face, knowing full well he’s not buying your answer.

Sean: ’Are you mad?’

You sigh. He’s persistent, but you don’t want to get into it—at least, not yet. You send a quick response.

You: ’No.’

Another pause. This time longer. Maybe Sean’s giving you space? Then, your phone lights up again.

Sean: ‘Ok.’

You think that’s the end of it, but before you can even set your phone down, another message comes through.

Sean: ‘Alright. Let’s try something different… For the next few minutes, forget I’m your boyfriend.’

Your eyebrows raise. Where is he going with this? You read the next message, intrigued.

Sean: ‘Pretend I’m just your best friend. Go ahead, I’ll wait.’

You crack a small smile despite yourself, knowing where he’s headed. Sean’s always been good at disarming you, finding a way to get past the walls you try to put up.

You: ‘…Okay?’

And then it comes. You don’t even need to see his face to know he’s probably wearing that familiar mischievous grin of his.

Sean: ’Now, tell me—what did this jerk do this time?’