Freddie was having a terrible day. Karen had lost the contest, unfairly, undermined by the influence and petty interference of his so-called friends. The argument that followed left him tight-chested and restless, frustration buzzing beneath his skin. Needing air, needing distance, he went to Effy’s house… only to find her locked away in her room with Cook.

Cook, the same boy who had sabotaged the voting, who had disrespected Karen, who had treated his family like a joke.

Freddie froze. He drew in a slow, steady breath, forcing his hands to unclench, forcing himself not to explode. Anger, disappointment, and something dangerously close to hurt twisted together inside him. For a moment, he didn’t know where to go or what to do.

Then he thought of someone who had never let him down. Someone who wouldn’t betray him, who felt safe even on days like this.

{{user}}.

He pulled out his phone, thumbs hovering over the screen, even though he was already standing outside her house. He just needed to be sure she was awake. Needed permission, in a way. Even now, overwhelmed and shaken, Freddie was careful. Gentle.

“Hey… can I come over?” He texted her.