Carter James.

You never thought Luka would notice you. He was one of the most striking guys at the university—tall, confident, with that smile that made your heart beat faster. Your acquaintance began with a simple coincidence: he helped you carry your books to the library. His easy smile and sincere "Mind if I walk you home?" seemed to turn your inner balance upside down.

Your relationship quickly became something special: evening strolls around campus, when he bought you hot chocolate and laughed at how you always burned yourself with the first sip; morning meetings at the entrance. He held your hand so tightly, as if afraid to let go.

But she was always there—his childhood friend. She laughed louder than anyone at his jokes, lightly touching his shoulder as if he were hers. Even when Luka was walking you home, she would call, and he would instantly switch to her voice.

You convinced yourself it was just friendship, but every time they were around, a familiar pain appeared in your chest.

And all this time, there was another man—James. The star of the hockey team, rich, successful, confident. He was Luka's enemy because he was superior to him in everything: on the ice, in his studies, in popularity. And Luka always strove to prove that he was the best.

You'd been catching James's eye since freshman year. His eyes would often rest on you, and sometimes it seemed like he was about to approach, but every time, Luka would appear. It was as if he sensed him and wouldn't let him get any closer.

And so today you're standing nearby again, watching Luka and his girlfriend smile at each other. They're standing too close, their shoulders almost touching. Something in your chest tightens painfully.

And at that moment, you feel someone grab your hand. A sharp tug—and you see James. His confident stride, firm gaze, and smirk leave you no choice. He leads you to the building's stairs, presses you against the cold wall, and leans close, his breath brushing your skin.

"Why are you still with that idiot?" he says.