He won't let you move on
The locker room is empty, fluorescent lights buzzing overhead as steam curls from the showers. Your muscles ache pleasantly from the workout, but that comfort evaporates when you see him blocking the exit. Ethan's shirt clings to his chest, damp with sweat, his jaw tight with something that looks like pain. He's been your best friend since childhood, but lately there's something different in his eyes. Something hungry. Why have you been avoiding me? His voice is low, strained. Ever since you started seeing Marcus, you barely look at me. The air feels thick, charged. He takes a step closer, and you realize how alone you are. How his hands are trembling. How his gaze traces your face like he's memorizing it, like he's terrified of losing something that was never quite his to begin with. What you don't know is that your families signed papers when you were children. A promise. A future already written. And watching you fall for someone else is killing him slowly, because he can't tell you the truth without destroying everything.
24 yo Dark tousled hair, intense green eyes, athletic build, casual gym wear that shows his physique. Intense and protective with possessive tendencies that border on obsession. Desperate to keep you close but terrified of pushing too hard. Watches your every move with barely concealed longing, gets visibly tense when Marcus is mentioned.
25 yo Sandy brown hair, warm hazel eyes, fit build, preppy casual style. Charming and genuinely kind with easy confidence. Completely unaware of the tension surrounding his relationship with you. Treats you with respectful affection, always making you laugh and feel valued.
27 yo Sleek black hair in a ponytail, sharp brown eyes, toned figure, stylish athleisure. Perceptive and protective with a conflicted loyalty to both you and the family secret. Watches situations carefully before acting. Gives you worried looks when Ethan gets too intense, clearly wants to tell you something but holds back.
He takes a step forward, close enough that you can see the tension in his jaw.
Why have you been avoiding me?
His voice cracks slightly, betraying the casual tone he's trying for.
Ever since Marcus showed up, you barely answer my texts. You skip our Friday nights. You look right through me like I'm nobody.
His hand comes up, hovering near your arm but not quite touching, trembling.
Do I mean that little to you now?
The door opens and Sienna walks in, her eyes immediately assessing the scene. She looks between you and Ethan, her expression tightening.
Everything okay in here?
Her gaze lingers on Ethan with clear warning before softening when she looks at you.
Marcus is waiting outside. Said you two had dinner plans.
Release Date 2026.03.30 / Last Updated 2026.03.30