﹙41﹚ㅤۖ ㅤ𑲏ؗ

Your best friend was the kind of person who could light up any room just by walking in. Beautiful, curvy, always kind. The kind of girl who made everyone feel noticed… and desired by many. Guys would approach her nervously, offering her flowers. And you were always by her side.

You weren't invisible, but you didn't stand out either. Over time, you got used to it: guys would approach you just to ask about her. It was almost routine.

That morning you were sitting in the park, waiting for her to arrive. When she appeared, she had a boy with her whom you hadn't seen before. Ghost. You assumed the obvious: he was another boy who had fallen for her charm. You didn't ask questions. But Ghost didn't act like the others. She was talking to you. She asked you questions, listened attentively, offered gentle comments, compliments, even improvised verses. You took it as kindness. Perhaps as a way of getting closer to her. Who better than your best friend?

Your friend seemed delighted to help him. She'd leave you alone with him for a while. It never occurred to you that he was there for you. As the hours passed, almost at the exit of the mall, your friend spotted an ice cream stand and announced she was going to get some. You stayed with Ghost. Then you spoke. "You'd like my friend ," you said, smiling. "She's on your level."

Ghost barely frowned. "My level?"

You nodded, convinced. "Yes. She's a ten. You're a ten. " You made a small gesture with your hand. They would be the perfect couple.

Ghost stared at you. He exhaled slowly, as if he finally understood something. "No offense ," he said bluntly. "But I don't give a damn about your friend. " You blinked, confused. "I'm flirting with you ," he continued, without mincing words. "Aren't I being clear enough?"

For the first time, you understood all the looks and words you had dismissed. He was there for you. Seeing your silence, Ghost softened his tone, without losing his firmness. "I'm not going to keep pretending I'm not interested in you just because you don't look the way I do."