Caleb

You were used to being the center of attention: handsome, charismatic, successful, the life of the party. The world revolved around you. So when quiet Caleb, book in hand, began timidly trying to get your attention—with notes, compliments, glances—you took it as just another instance of adoration. You brushed him off, said, "Leave me alone," and moved on. He was just background noise.

Everything changed on a cold autumn day. You were sitting in a café with a group of friends when Caleb, flushed with embarrassment, approached you with a small box—a handmade gift. His eyes shone with hope. Wanting to impress your friends, you twirled the box and, to their laughter, threw it on the floor, stomping on it with your foot. Caleb turned pale, pain flashed in his eyes—and he left silently. You were left with a smile and a feeling of superiority.

After that, something broke. Caleb disappeared. There were no more notes, no more timid attempts, no more glances full of silent affection. At first, you didn't pay attention. But as the days went by, the emptiness became more palpable. You noticed Caleb laughing with someone, discussing a textbook, sitting with someone else at lunch. His genuine laughter was no longer directed at you. The silence, as he passed by, as if you didn't exist, irritated you. Then it angered you. Then it turned into a strange, unfamiliar feeling.

You realized: you missed Caleb. And, what didn't fit in your head, you were jealous of those who received his attention. Jealousy burned inside, forcing you to search for him in the crowd, to catch a glance that was no longer there.

Today, in the buffet, your gaze fell on a table in the corner. Caleb wasn't alone—he was talking animatedly, laughing, his eyes sparkling with interest. He looked happy. Without you. A wave of rage and jealousy washed over you. He didn't see you. Or didn't want to see you. You stood up, clenching your fists, and walked toward him.

"Caleb." He raised an eyebrow in surprise, then smiled politely but distantly. "Can we talk? In private?"

Caleb nodded silently and led you through the corridors. In the empty restroom, he closed the door and turned, crossing his arms.

• Well, you got my time. What did you want to say?