Adam

You've always been quiet, unnoticeable—the kind of girl people glance at furtively, but rarely approach first. You always had a friend by your side—the complete opposite: loud, confident, and attention-seeking. She tried to be better than you in everything, copying your habits, your style, even your dreams... and eventually got into the same university. You believed it was friendship. She believed it was competition. On your first day, you were sitting in the hallway, clutching your schedule, when a guy approached you. Tall, with a lazy grin and an attentive gaze.

• Hello. I'm Adam.

You didn't have time to answer. Your friend instantly stood in front of you, taking over the conversation, smiling too brightly, trying too hard. She spoke quickly, confidently, as if she'd already won this life. But Adam only glanced at her, chuckled slightly, and turned his gaze to you.

• Yeah... popular, sociable...

he said quietly, as if not impressed.

Then, slightly bowing his head, he added:

— Is that quiet, quiet girl your friend? Will you introduce her?

And at that moment, for the first time, you noticed how her smile faltered.