“The way I see it, you’re the one hurting Liam, not the other way around.”
Caleb’s words hit me like a brick. I wanted to argue, to prove him wrong, but part of me couldn’t find a counterpoint—there was truth in what he said.
I looked away from him. “Y-you know what? Forget it,” I stammered. “I shouldn’t have asked you to fake date me.”
Before he could reply, Zed appeared behind us. “There you are!”
Caleb and I just glanced at him in response. “I saw the post—” I cut him off.
“None of it’s true.”
He frowned. “If it’s not, then why were you chasing each other? What, you just felt like running around where Liam was?” His tone made it clear he half-believed the gossip.
Caleb rolled his eyes. “It just happened to be where he was, okay? And why do you care—like we’re meddling with that wrinkled uniform of yours?!” he teased.
Zed blinked, thrown off, and tried to hide his uniform with his arms. “W-who cares?” he shot back.
“Well, I do,” Caleb retorted, dripping with sarcasm.
“Well, I don’t care about your opinion, Caleb!”
I sighed heavily. “Enough, you two,” I snapped. “I chased Caleb because he owed me one, and Liam just happened to be there.”
Zed’s face scrunched in confusion. “Owed you for what?” he asked Caleb.
“I set her up. Left her yesterday so she’d ride home with Liam,” Caleb explained.
Zed’s eyes narrowed, then he chuckled. “You what? Nice move, bro! You didn’t do anything wrong,” he said, high-fiving Caleb.
Oh, come on—this guy! They were bickering a second ago, and now they’re teaming up?
“Hey, what’s so ‘nice’ about that?! It’s not funny!” I barked at Zed.
But they ignored me, continuing their teasing. “And that’s not all,” Caleb added. “With this new rumor flying around, she wanted us to play along and pretend we’re actually dating.”
Zed’s eyes widened, like he couldn’t believe it. “Are you serious, Mira?” he asked, staring at me.
I avoided his gaze. “Yeah, so what? I just wanted to get back at Liam.”
He burst out laughing. What’s so funny now? Is he mocking me?
“I think you’re being petty, Mira,” he said, and I froze. Is he for real? Me, petty? No way!
“E-excuse me?!” I shot back, defensive.
“The thing with him and Alex isn’t even true.”
I rolled my eyes. “Oh, please—you’re just like everyone else, always defending Liam. It’s obvious something’s up with them! And if I hurt him, he deserves it.” But my heart disagreed. Deep down, I knew he didn’t deserve it, yet I clung to the idea that he did—because he’d hurt me first by chasing his dreams over us.
Zed let out a frustrated sigh. “Mira, I’m not defending him. I’m just—” Caleb cut in.
“Why not date for real, Mira?”
Zed nodded fast. “Yeah, he’s right. Drop the revenge and start fresh. You could move on peacefully.”
I quickly looked away. “W-why would I do that?” I faltered. “And Caleb, forget I ever suggested faking it. It was dumb.”
“So, are you gonna date someone new or what?” they pressed.
Why are they pushing this? I’m not ready for another relationship. “No, I’m still not ready,” I replied.
They exchanged a glance. “Oh, not over him yet,” Zed teased.
Caleb smirked, nodding in approval. Look at these two, ganging up to mess with me again! “See? You can’t hurt him on purpose,” Caleb said.
I stared at him, puzzled. “What?” My voice was a whisper.
“Don’t you get it?” he began. “You can’t bring yourself to hurt Liam. The way you’re acting—it’s like you’re pushing him away, but deep down, you want him back. You’re hurting yourself more than him.”
Zed nodded. “He’s right, Mira. You think you’re getting at Liam by making him jealous, but you’re the one suffering. You’re stuck in the past, and it’s holding you back.”
Their bluntness caught me off guard. One minute they’re joking, the next they’re dead serious.
It was true. I’d been telling myself he deserved pain, but part of me still ached for him. My anger was just a shield for my heart.
I realized now that, while I didn’t mean to hurt him, my actions had unintentionally caused him pain.
“No, I don’t want him back,” I denied. “We don’t deserve each other.”
“You’re just scared of getting hurt again—both of you are. But you can’t run from your real feelings forever,” Zed said.
I turned away, unable to face them. They were right—I was the one suffering most.
Taking a deep breath, I met their eyes. “Fine, I still love him,” I confessed.
They looked at me, stunned. They’d suspected it, but hearing it aloud was different.
“I’m the one who ended it,” I went on. “It’s my fault. I still love him, even after leaving him.” Tears spilled over, and I swiped at them, but they wouldn’t stop.
“Mira…” Caleb murmured.
“I let him go, but I still feel for him. I did something I’ll regret forever, and it’s tearing me apart.”
Zed patted my shoulder, comforting me. “Dude, Caleb, why’d you make her cry?”
Caleb faked a swing at him. “She’s crying, and you’re still teasing?”
“I was lightening the mood,” Zed defended. “But seriously, Mira, it’s okay to have regrets. It’s not too late to fix things.”
I wiped my eyes, facing them. “I don’t know if I can. I’ve already ruined it all.”
I took a breath. Enough drama—crying in front of these two clowns won’t change anything. I turned to leave.
“Where you going?” Caleb asked.
“Classroom. Don’t you guys have classes?” Just then, the bell rang.
Liam’s POV
———
I ran a hand through my hair, slamming my locker shut. I couldn’t stop replaying what I’d said to Mira yesterday.
“Do you still love me?”
The question had slipped out, unbidden, and lingered heavily between us. I’d been a wreck since.
I’d been so caught up in my own head that I hadn’t thought how it might’ve hit her. Maybe it was selfish, a way to ease my own doubts. Thinking about it now embarrassed me.
What was I even doing? After asking her to stay friends, I drop that on her? It’s obvious I’m still holding onto the past.
Turning, I saw Mira. My heart raced at the sight of her—she still had that hold on me.
Her eyes were down, lost in thought. Was she thinking about what I said too?
Suddenly, she looked up, and our gazes locked. We held it for a moment.
Part of me wanted to pull her close, beg her to take me back, but I couldn’t. I knew it wasn’t possible—her actions screamed she didn’t want me anymore.
I’d suggested staying friends, but honestly, I didn’t want just that. She seemed fine with it, though.
Gathering my nerve to approach her, I froze as someone called my name.
Turning, I saw Alex waving. I forced a smile as she came over. She’s a good friend, but her timing was awful.
Truth is, there’s nothing between us. We’re just friends—I’m helping her out. She’s into a soccer teammate, and I’m playing cupid. Ironic how that’s twisted into Mira misunderstanding me.
I glanced at Mira again, but she was already walking away. My chest tightened. Did she misread this? Or does she just not care anymore?
“Did you give him the letter?” Alex asked as she reached me.
“Yeah, I did.”
“Did he read it? What’d he say?” she pressed.
I sighed, annoyed. Why did I even agree to help her? She could handle this herself.
“I don’t know—ask him.”
She looked away. “I’m shy. What if he doesn’t like me?”
I laughed. “You, shy? Remember our fling? You made the first move.”
She huffed. “That was stupid of me.”
“Yeah, sure. You even ditched your boyfriend for me,” I teased.
She rolled her eyes. “I’ve changed, okay? Seriously, I really like your teammate—keep helping me, please,” she pleaded.
Before I could answer, I saw Caleb sprinting down the hall with Mira chasing him, racing past us. Their footsteps echoed.
“Is that your cousin and Mira?” Alex asked.
I nodded. I could guess why—probably Caleb setting her up with me yesterday.
“Are they dating or something?” she asked.
“No way!” I snapped.
She looked startled by my tone. “Why so defensive?”
I don’t know why I sounded like that. There’s nothing between them—they’re just close.
Maybe I’m defensive because it’s Mira.
Alex grinned mischievously. “You’re jealous, huh?”
I sighed. “They’re just friends—shut up.”
She rolled her eyes. “Fine.” Then, like she remembered something, she pulled an envelope from her pocket. “Can you give this to him?”
I stared at it. “Another letter?”
She nodded. “Yeah. Make sure he gets it,” she said, handing it over.
I didn’t take it. “I’m done helping. Do it yourself!”
“Why not?! You promised!” she whined.
I gave her a hard look. “You know there’s rumors about us, right? It’s all over that page.”
She winced. “But it’s not true! And he doesn’t believe it, does he?”
Before I could reply, a wave of notifications buzzed through the hall. I checked my phone—Buzzworthy Scoop had posted about Caleb and Mira, with a mention of Alex and me.
Well, things got a little... interesting in the hallway this morning. We saw Mira and Caleb, Liam’s cousin (and, if you remember, Mira’s ex), chasing each other around like they were in some high school rom-com. Now, we know Liam and Mira recently broke up, and things were pretty messy. So, seeing them all in the hallway, especially with Liam and Alex just a few feet away, was definitely a head-scratcher. Many students were left wondering what could have prompted such a chase. Some speculate that it might be a playful game between the two, while others believe there might be something more going on. One popular theory is that Mira and Caleb are trying to make Liam jealous. It’s no secret that Mira still has feelings for Liam, and seeing him with Alex must be painful. Some speculate that Mira might be using Caleb as a way to get Liam’s attention and make him realize what he’s losing. Another possibility is that there might be a romantic connection between Mira and Caleb. Perhaps their chase was a playful flirtation, indicating a potential budding romance. After all, it’s not uncommon for people to find love in unexpected places. Whatever the reason behind their chase, it’s clear that Mira and Caleb are making waves in the school, adding a new layer of drama to the whole school.
“Oh my gosh, is this for real? Doesn’t Mira know there’s nothing between us? Is she really using Caleb to make you jealous?” Alex fired off, eyes glued to her phone. “Tell me—is it true?!”
I sighed deeply. Her overreaction was the last thing I needed. “It’s just nonsense,” I said.
She tilted her head. “Really? You don’t think she’s trying to make you jealous?”
“Mira’s not like that,” I replied curtly.
She chuckled. “Yeah, I know she’s not, but… what about you?”
I raised a brow. “Me?” I pointed to myself.
“You sure you didn’t feel even a little jealous?”
I looked down. I didn’t want to admit it, but yeah, I felt a twinge. I couldn’t tell if Mira meant it or if it was subconscious.
“You’re so annoying—forget it!” I snapped, walking off. But she called after me. “Wait! You forgot the letter!”
“I told you, I’m not helping anymore. Do it yourself!”
“Just this once—last time, I swear,” she begged.
“With all these rumors, I can’t.”
“But—” I cut her off. Why’s she so stubborn?
“Alex, give it to him yourself. I hate to say it, but it’s obvious he likes you too. He’s not the type to make the first move, so… good luck.” I walked off, not waiting for her reply.
———
Sitting next to Mira in class, I couldn’t stop sneaking glances at her. We’d agreed to stay friends, but she’d been dodging me. After yesterday’s question, it felt worse. I missed her—I’d hurt her, and I wanted to fix it.
Since she walked in, I’d tried to talk to her, but I kept chickening out, words failing me.
Then she turned, and our eyes met. I thought she’d look away like always, but she surprised me—holding my gaze with a small smile. “Liam, Sir’s calling you.”
I snapped to Sir Valdez and stood. “S-sir.”
“You seem distracted, Liam.”
“Sir, how could he not be? His ex is right next to him,” Ken teased, loud enough for the class to hear.
I glanced at Mira—she didn’t flinch, totally unfazed, like nothing had happened.
Sir Valdez cleared his throat. “Enough, Ken. Stop fooling around!” After scolding him, he turned to me. “Liam, answer my question about the lesson.”
I sat back down after answering, next to Mira again. She didn’t seem bothered by me anymore—not as distant. What’s going on?
During the lesson, I noticed a speck of dirt in her hair. “Mira,” I said. “You’ve got something in your hair.”
She turned, touching her hair. “Where?”
I pointed. “There.”
She tried brushing it off but missed. “Is it still there?” she asked.
I nodded. “Yeah.”
“Can you get it for me?” she said.
I blinked, caught off guard. Yesterday, she could barely stand me—now this? So personal.
What’s up with her? I should be glad she’s not awkward anymore, but her sudden shift threw me.
I nodded and gently brushed it away. Our fingers grazed, sending a shiver through me.
I braced for her to pull back, but she acted like it was nothing.
She smiled. “Thanks. Sorry—I couldn’t see it.”
I smiled back. “No problem.”
Sitting there, I wondered what changed. But it felt good—like things were normalizing between us.
Mira’s POV
———
I couldn’t believe I was sitting next to Liam, acting like everything was fine. Days ago, I’d avoided him like a disease. Now, I was letting him touch my hair, chatting like old pals.
Guilt hit me as I realized how much I’d hurt him. I’d been selfish, scared of more pain.
I’d built the wall between us—kept him at arm’s length, pushed him away.
And now, I regretted it.
Caleb and Zed were right—I couldn’t keep shutting him out. I had to let him in.
I’m heading to Italy after graduation, so I decided to spend my last weeks here being his friend. I want to make up for it, cherish every day with them—especially Liam—before I go.
Starting over in Italy means leaving everything behind, including my feelings for him. It’ll be tough, but I need to focus on my future.
After class, Liam bolted out without a word.
“What’s up with him?” Ace asked.
I shrugged. “No idea.”
“Something going on with you two again?” Sophie probed.
I shook my head. “Nope.” A lie—they didn’t need to know about yesterday when he drove me home. They’d just tease and pester me.
And his quick exit probably wasn’t related. They’re overreacting.
“Maybe he’s just busy,” I added.
“Busy with Alex?” Ken teased.
I rolled my eyes. “I don’t know! Ask him yourself,” I snapped.
“Okay, okay,” Ken said, hands up in mock surrender. “But he’s been off since this morning—lost in thought.”
“Maybe it’s that new Buzzworthy Scoop post?” Mady suggested.
“Oh, the one about Mira and Caleb? Could be—he might be jealous,” Sophie said.
“But didn’t Mira say it wasn’t true?” Ace chimed in.
I scratched my head, fed up. “Instead of guessing, just ask Liam later.” I grabbed my stuff. “I’ve gotta go—see you guys.”
“Where you off to? Caleb?” Sophie teased.
I sighed, refusing to take the bait. “Cut it out. Journalism club!”
They laughed. “Relax, just kidding,” Sophie said. “We don’t believe that post.”
“Even the stuff about Liam and Alex—we don’t buy it. You’re the one who does,” Ken added.
“Because it’s different. There’s zero truth to mine, but with Liam and Alex, I’m not so sure.”
Mady opened her mouth, but I cut her off. “And no, I’m not jealous!” I stormed out before they could reply.
Right outside, Liam was waiting. “We need to talk,” he said, firm.
Before I could answer, he grabbed my hand and pulled me to the school park.
“Why drag me here? Couldn’t we talk back there?” I asked as we reached a quiet bench.
“I need you alone,” he said. “There’s something I have to explain.”
My stomach twisted. Is this about him asking if I still love him?
“We agreed to be friends, and I’ve tried respecting that,” he went on. “But I can’t move on. I still care about you, Mira. A lot.”
What’s he saying? Is this real? I’m so confused.
“W-what? What about Alex?”
“Mira, I never meant to hurt you. That Buzzworthy Scoop post made it look like I moved on fast, but it’s not true. Alex and I are just friends.”
My skeptical look made him explain—he’s just playing matchmaker for her and a teammate. I’d misjudged everything.
“Sorry, I didn’t know,” I said.
He gave a faint smile. “It’s okay. I’m not asking you to erase the past—just know I still care.”
I sighed, holding his gaze. “I care about you too. But I don’t think we can fix what’s left.”
He looked down, then up again. “I know,” he nodded. “But I want to try—try being friends, being there for you, even just as that. I messed up, but I want another chance.”
He wasn’t asking to rekindle us—just to stay friends. Losing him entirely, even as a friend, felt unbearable.
My heart ached. This is what I wanted, right? Friendship. So why did it hurt? He’d clearly given up on us too.
I forced a smile. “Of course. Let’s leave it all behind and be friends again—like before.”
He didn’t speak. Then, out of nowhere, he hugged me. “Thank you, Mira.”
He pulled back fast, face red. “I-I’m sorry. Was that okay?”
I was stunned—I didn’t know how to react. It’d been ages since his last hug, back when we were together.
“It’s fine—we’re friends, right?”
We had a lot to sort out, but for the first time since the breakup, I felt a spark of hope.
“I’ve gotta go—journalism club,” I said, standing. “See you around.”
I started walking, but he stopped me. “Wait, Mira.”
“What?”
He hesitated. “Anyone taking you home later?”
“Caleb texted—he’s driving me to make up for yesterday,” I said.
He took a deep breath, mustering courage. “Could… I drive you instead? We’re neighbors… and friends.”
It was odd, but his words warmed me. Caleb wouldn’t mind—he’d probably cheer. “Sure. See you later, then.”
Walking to my club, I couldn’t stop smiling. I’d thought being friends with Liam again would be hard, but maybe it wouldn’t be so bad. With time, we might rebuild something—maybe not what we had, but something new.
And maybe, just maybe, we’d find our way back to each other, even if it looked different than before.