Chapter 1

Aiden's words hit me like a bolt of lightning from a clear sky, leaving me completely defenseless.

My mind went blank.

Despite the sweltering summer afternoon, I felt ice cold all over.

The conversation in the classroom continued. His friends fell silent for a moment before someone spoke again.

"Classic Aiden, using the perfect girl as practice."

"So what, she's basically like his personal plaything?"

Aiden laughed carelessly. "Come on guys, it's not like she didn't enjoy it."

Someone quickly agreed. "True that. Though she is kind of skinny compared to Madison's curves..."

Aiden threw a textbook at him, cutting him off mid-sentence. "Look, we were both caught up in the moment. And she seemed pretty... eager."

The guys exchanged knowing looks and started teasing him.

"Who knew Little Miss Perfect was so thirsty?"

"Can't blame her - our boy Aiden's got game. Might as well take what's offered."

"After pining after you for so many years, bet she couldn't wait to get her hands on you."

The laughter in the room grew louder.

I bit my lip hard, my hands clenched into fists.

It took everything I had just to stay standing outside that classroom door.

Footsteps echoed from the end of the hallway.

I snapped back to reality and fled, stumbling into a bathroom stall to hide.

Chapter 2

Tears of heartbreak and humiliation streamed down my face.

Aiden's words echoed in my head, each syllable destroying what was left of my self-worth.

If I hadn't heard it myself, I wouldn't have believed the guy who'd passionately made love to me last night could be the same person. I guess you don't need love to be intimate. Even in those moments of intense passion, lies can still fall from your lips.

What I foolishly thought was the start of something real was just a joke to them.

The more I cried, the worse I felt, trying to muffle my sobs as my body shook.

After what felt like forever, my phone buzzed.

Aiden: [Take an Uber home. Got plans with the guys tonight, can't drive you.]

I didn't respond.

Aiden: [Don't forget to get Plan B yourself, I'm busy today. Make sure you take it, k?]

I stared at the messages, speechless.

Last night, from dusk till dawn, Aiden had been insatiable. Before we fell asleep exhausted in each other's arms, he'd drowsily whispered twice: "Sorry I wasn't more prepared. I'll get you Plan B first thing tomorrow."

He'd even lectured me about taking care of myself, insisting I needed to take the pill to protect my health.

Back then, I thought he was being responsible. I thought I'd finally found my happiness.

And now...

Reality hit me like a bucket of cold water.

I dug my nails into my palms, forcing myself to stop crying. After cleaning myself up, I left the bathroom.

Too embarrassed to go to the pharmacy, I ordered Plan B online. Even then, I waited forever after the delivery driver left it at my door before sneaking out to get it.

After swallowing the pill through tears, I collapsed onto my carpet, completely drained.

Ever since Aiden's family moved next door, I'd followed him around like a lost puppy - for ten whole years.

I'd never imagined a world without him in it. Never wanted to.

But now I had no choice.

Outside my window, city lights flickered on and off as evening settled in.

Time blurred until my best friend Maya's FaceTime lit up my screen.

"Brooklyn, why aren't you at the party with Aiden tonight? That girl Sarah from AP Lit showed up and she's all over him. They're making everyone uncomfortable."

Maya flipped her camera around.

Chapter 3

Through the dim corner of the VIP lounge, I watched Aiden and Madison pressed close together.

Madison wore a crop top and high-waisted jeans that highlighted her perfect figure. They'd created their own bubble, separate from everyone else, whispering intimately.

Even through the screen, their chemistry was undeniable.

My chest tightened painfully.

Just hours ago, Aiden said he wanted to pursue her. Clearly, he'd already succeeded.

When Madison drew "Push-ups" in Truth or Dare - where a guy had to do push-ups over a girl - Aiden volunteered instantly.

The crowd went wild.

Madison lay back on the couch, blushing. Aiden positioned himself above her, knocking out dozens of push-ups.

He was careful at first, maintaining distance. But on the last one - whether from exhaustion or intention - he collapsed right on top of her.

The room erupted in screams and whistles.

Both their faces flushed red. Then, amid the chaos, Aiden leaned down and kissed her.

Their makeout session lasted three endless minutes.

I couldn't tear my eyes from the screen, barely breathing, my heart being shredded to pieces.

I wanted to cry, but after this afternoon's breakdown, I had no tears left.

"Damn girl, you see that? They're literally perfect together," Maya said, before taking her phone to a quiet corner. "Brooklyn, I'm sorry, but you needed to see this. You wouldn't have moved on otherwise."

My voice came out raw. "Yeah. Thanks."

I had only myself to blame. For years, I'd thought being allowed to stay by Aiden's side meant that space was mine.

"I'm just so mad at him," Maya continued. "He knew how you felt all these years, but he played innocent and let you fall deeper and deeper. After what you saw tonight, please don't let him waste another four years of your life in college..."

"He won't," I cut her off quietly.

"I've made my decision. I'm going to Stanford with you.

But Maya, promise me you'll keep it secret for now."