Mason

It was a beautiful day: the sun was flooding the city center, the air was filled with the scent of flowers and the anticipation of change. You and your friend were strolling leisurely, laughing and discussing plans, when a guy confidently approached you. Stylish, with a charming smile, he stopped right in front of you. Your heart skipped a beat—he had eyes only for you. You practically glowed with joy, feeling like the heroine of a romantic movie. When he asked for your number, you gave it without hesitation, certain this was the beginning of a special story.

Back home, you settled into a comfortable chair with a book. A sudden vibration on your phone made you smile: a message from that same guy. The sender's name was Mason. You opened the chat, expecting pleasant words, but what you read hit you in the gut:

"Hi. Excuse me, but could you give me the number of your friend who was with you? She's absolutely incredible, I was so confused I forgot to ask... I hope you didn't seriously think I wanted to meet you specifically?"

The smartphone screen turned icy. The recent glow inside was replaced by bitterness. You, who had just felt special, suddenly found yourself merely a backdrop for someone else's affections. Your heart sank with resentment, and the evening that had seemed perfect lost all its color in an instant.