clxireslove - Tumblr blog

clxireslove · 5 months ago

Text

#RedFlags

Warnings: cussing

Tags: @grosspube @vienwood @valalice @halle5s @soniiyi @baylegend6. And to the people I couldn't tag I'm sorry.

The cozy, inviting scent of vanilla candles welcomes you as you step into Lena and Julie’s shared house. Their place radiates a sense of comfort, a safe haven you didn’t realize you needed after the chaotic events of the day. You’re grateful to have friends with their own space, a reprieve from being cooped up at your parents’ house day in and day out.

You settle onto the couch, grabbing the remote to turn on the TV. Julie is already sprawled across most of the cushions, her green hair barely visible under a fuzzy purple blanket she’s cocooned herself in. Her legs stretch out, leaving you with just enough room to sit.

Lena disappears into the kitchen, rummaging for snacks, while you glance over at Julie. “Thanks for letting me crash here,” you say, your voice soft but sincere.

“Duh,” Julie replies without missing a beat, chucking a pillow at you with just enough force to make you flinch. “This is kind of your home too, you know. I mean, you helped us find this place.”

You glance at her, half-smiling. "I guess I did, huh?" You sink deeper into the couch, adjusting your position to settle in for what will hopefully be a relaxing night.

Lena returns with a bowl of chips, a plate of cookies, and a bottle of soda, setting everything down in front of you both. "I swear," she says with a grin, flopping into the armchair beside you, "this place wouldn't be the same without you." There's a sincerity in her voice that makes the whole room feel warmer, like the simple act of being together was enough to make everything right.

Julie, ever the affectionate one, pulls Lena into her arms, her green hair falling over her face as she smiles at her girlfriend. They share a moment, their eyes locking in a way that only the two of them can understand. It's a look full of comfort and love, and for a moment, you're reminded of how much they mean to each other.

Lena turns to you, popping open her soda with a flick of her wrist. "So, Julie texts me saying you bumped into Vi during gym class. What’s this about?" she asks, her eyes narrowing slightly with curiosity.

You glance at Julie, who grins at you like she knows something you don’t. She leans back, crossing her arms, clearly enjoying the moment.

"I leave to grab my water bottle, come back, and Vi’s over there cornering Y/N like a damn police officer," Julie says with a teasing smirk, her tone a mix of concern and amusement.

You can feel your cheeks heat up as both Lena and Julie turn their attention to you. The weight of their gazes is almost too much, and you awkwardly shift in your seat, trying to gather your thoughts.

"Cornering, huh?" Lena raises an eyebrow, her lips curling into a playful but knowing smile. "Sounds intense."

"Yeah," you say, trying to brush it off. "She just started talking to me. It wasn’t... anything crazy." But the truth is, you felt cornered. Vi’s presence had been suffocating, and you still couldn’t shake the way her eyes had roamed over you.

Julie snorts. "I’m not buying that for a second. Vi doesn’t just ‘talk.’ She makes her intentions pretty damn clear."You glance at Julie, giving her a look that says, really? but she just shrugs, her smirk never fading. "What do you mean by intentions?" Her voice drops, more serious now. "Vi’s not someone you want to mess with, Y/N."

"I know," you mumble, shifting in your seat again, your nerves growing. "It’s just... she was kind of in my space, you know?"

Lena groans, leaning onto Julie with a dramatic sigh. She mumbles something under her breath before speaking louder. "Y/N, why do you have to be the trouble magnet?"

You wince at her words, not meaning to cause any chaos, but it feels like that's all you ever end up attracting lately. Julie snickers beside you, giving Lena an amused look.

"I swear, it’s like the universe just loves throwing these people at you," Julie teases, poking you lightly in the side. "I mean, Caitlyn and Vi? Really?"

Lena rolls her eyes, sitting up straighter. "You need to start wearing some kind of repellent," she jokes, though her tone is tinged with concern. "Something that screams ‘stay away’ to people like them."

You laugh nervously, though it’s half-hearted. "If only it were that easy."

Julie raises an eyebrow, leaning forward like she’s piecing together a puzzle. "But wait... Caitlyn talked to you in biochem, and now Vi’s cornering you in the gym? That’s not a coincidence, Y/N. They’re up to something."

The implication makes your stomach twist. You try to wave it off, though you’re not even convincing yourself. "It’s probably nothing. Maybe they’re just..." You trail off, not really knowing how to finish that sentence.

"Obsessed," Lena interjects flatly, crossing her arms. "They’re obsessed. Caitlyn and Vi don’t go after anyone without a reason. They’ve got their sights set on you, Y/N, and it’s not gonna stop until they get whatever they want."

You glance at Lena, silently pleading for her to say it’s a joke, to tell you that you’re overthinking everything. Instead, she leans forward, her expression firm and unwavering. Julie nods beside her, her usual playfulness replaced with an unusual seriousness.

"She’s not wrong," Julie says, her tone low and steady. "Caitlyn and Vi don’t just play around. When they decide they want someone, they don’t back off. Trust me, I’ve seen it happen before."

You lean back, the weight of their words sinking in like a heavy blanket. "But... I haven’t done anything. I barely know them," you say softly, your voice barely above a whisper.

Lena tilts her head, her expression almost pitying but still sharp. "You think that matters?" she says, her voice laced with blunt honesty. "You’re a girl they haven’t fucked yet that’s enough to get them intrigued by you.” Her words hit like a punch to the gut, leaving you speechless. Julie flinches, giving Lena a pointed look. "Geez, Lena, maybe soften the blow a little?"

"I’m just being honest " Lena responds, crossing her arms. "They’ve got this... thing. It’s a game to them chasing someone who doesn’t fall at their feet right away. And you? You’re like a neon sign flashing challenge"

You rub your temples, overwhelmed. "That’s ridiculous," you mumble. "I’ve literally done nothing to encourage this.” Julie sighs, her tone softer now. "You don’t have to, Y/N. They see what they want, and they go after it. And the fact that you’re quiet and reserved? That’s probably making them even more interested. You’re different."

you groan, the sound sharp and full of frustration, cutting through the tense atmosphere in the room. "Can you stop using that shitty-ass word?" you snap, your voice louder than you intended. You hate it. That word. Different. It’s been thrown at you so much lately it’s starting to feel like a curse. "I don’t think I’m different. I’m just me. I didn’t ask for any of this!”

Lena arches an eyebrow at your reaction but stays silent, her sharp eyes fixed on you as if she’s dissecting your every word. She leans further into Julie, her body relaxed but her expression serious, waiting for you to finish venting. Meanwhile, Julie looks at you with her usual softness, though there’s an undertone of worry behind her green eyes.

"Y/N," Julie says, her voice dipping into a calm, measured tone as though she’s trying to coax a wild animal. "We’re not trying to make you feel bad, okay? It’s not your fault. It’s just... you don’t play their games like everyone else. That’s why they’re so fixated on you."

You feel your chest tighten at her words. "I didn’t ask for any of this," you say, your voice wavering as frustration claws at your insides. "I don’t want to stand out. I just want to be... normal. I just want to live my life without constantly feeling like I’m some target for... for this."You wave your hands in the air, gesturing vaguely, struggling to articulate the mess of emotions building up inside of you.

The weight of everything.

The lingering stares, the cryptic messages, the suffocating attention from people like Caitlyn and Vi is pressing down on you, threatening to crush you.Lena shifts in Julie’s arms, sitting up straighter. Her expression hardens as she interjects, "Life doesn’t work like that, Y/N. Whether you want it or not, you’ve got their attention now, and it’s not going away just because you wish it would."

Her bluntness stings, but it’s not surprising. Lena’s always been the one to cut straight to the point. No sugar-coating, no hand-holding. "Yeah, but why me?" you say, your voice cracking slightly. "What makes me so damn special? There are hundreds of other people at that school. Why are they wasting their time on me?"

Julie, ever the wildcard, leans back with a smirk. "Maybe it’s because they’ve already fucked, like, half the school," she quips, her tone light and teasing.

The room goes dead silent. Both you and Lena turn to stare at her, disbelief written all over your faces. Julie’s smirk falters, and she quickly holds up her hands in surrender, muttering, "Okay, bad timing. Sorry."

Lena pinches the bridge of her nose, exhaling sharply. "Jesus, Julie."

You can’t help the dry laugh that escapes your lips, even if it feels slightly forced. "Really helpful," you mutter, shaking your head. Despite the tension, Julie’s attempt to lighten the mood eases some of the pressure in your chest.

"Look," Lena says, cutting back in with her no-nonsense tone. "What Julie meant is that Caitlyn and Vi get bored easily. They’ve been with half the school because it’s easy for them. But you? You’re not easy. You’re not throwing yourself at them, and that pisses them off." Julie nods along quickly, clearly eager to redeem herself.

"Yeah, exactly. You’re, like, this shiny new toy they can’t figure out how to play with yet," Julie says with a shrug, but the second the words leave her mouth, she winces. "Okay, that sounded bad, but you know what I mean," she adds quickly, glancing at you with an apologetic grimace.

You sigh heavily, sinking deeper into the couch as the weight of the conversation presses down on you. "So what?" you say, your voice cracking with frustration. "Am I supposed to put on some fake facade to keep them intrigued and then throw myself at them like I’m some world-class whore?"

The words come out harsher than you intend, but you’re too stressed to care. Your fingers automatically move to pick at your nails, an anxious habit you’ve had for years. Lost in your thoughts, you don’t even notice Julie and Lena exchanging concerned glances.

"Nobody is telling you to do that," Lena says firmly, her voice cutting through your spiraling thoughts. Before you can pick at your nails any further, she reaches over, gently taking your hands in hers to stop you. Her grip is firm but comforting, grounding you in a way that catches you off guard.

"Y/N, stop," she says softly, her tone gentler now. "You don’t have to be anyone but yourself.” Julie leans closer, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, and honestly, they’re probably obsessed because you’re not flaunting yourself at them. That’s what’s driving them crazy because they’re not in control, and they hate that."

You glance between the two of them, their words sinking in slowly. "But what if they don’t stop?" you ask quietly, the vulnerability in your voice surprising even yourself.

Lena’s expression hardens slightly, her protective side kicking in. "Then we’ll make them stop," she says without hesitation. "You’re not dealing with this alone."

Julie grins, nudging your shoulder playfully. "Yeah, we’re your unofficial bodyguards now. Vi and Caitlyn won’t know what hit them."

Despite the heaviness of the conversation, a small smile tugs at your lips. Their unwavering support doesn’t erase the anxiety gnawing at you, but it helps. At least for now.

"Thanks, guys," you mumble, squeezing Lena’s hand briefly before pulling back.

"Anytime," Julie says brightly, tossing a chip into her mouth. "Now, can we stop talking about them and focus on something less depressing? Like a movie or pizza or literally anything else?"

Lena chuckles, reaching for the remote. "Agreed. Let’s do something that doesn’t involve school drama for once."

As they start flipping through the movie options, you settle back into the couch, grateful for the reprieve. But in the back of your mind, Caitlyn and Vi still linger like shadows, their presence impossible to ignore entirely.

—

As the night wears on, filled with laughter and the comforting sounds of a movie playing in the background, the cozy energy in the house begins to wind down. Eventually, the three of you are yawning more than talking, the warmth of the evening settling over you like a heavy blanket.

Lena stretches with a groan, running a hand through her hair before grabbing a soft blanket from the back of the couch. She walks over and places it in your arms with an easy smile. "Alright, time to call it a night," she says, motioning for you to follow her.

She leads you to the guest room, the room that’s practically become yours over the countless nights you’ve spent here. The familiar space feels like a second home, with its neatly made bed, soft lighting, and the faint scent of lavender from the diffuser on the dresser. It’s simple but comforting, filled with little touches that make it clear you’re always welcome here.

"Here you go," Lena says, leaning against the doorframe as you step inside. "Sleep well. You know the drill if you need anything, just yell."

"Thanks," you say softly, clutching the blanket to your chest. Lena gives you a small nod before heading back down the hall, her footsteps fading as her voice carries faintly, saying something to Julie. The warmth of the moment lingers as you glance around the room. The silence envelops you now, a stark contrast to the laughter and noise from earlier. It’s calming, even if the quiet feels just a little too heavy.

But as you settle onto the bed, adjusting the blanket around you, the muffled sounds of voices drift in from down the hall. Julie and Lena are talking or rather, yelling. Their tones rise and fall, sharp but not overly harsh. You recall Lena mentioning earlier that she needed to talk to Julie about something, and now it seems that conversation is happening.

Curiosity prickles at you as the noise carries on. For a moment, you’re tempted to slip out of bed and quietly edge closer to the door, hoping to catch bits of their exchange. But the thought feels invasive, like crossing a line that shouldn’t be crossed. You shake your head, dismissing the idea, and force yourself to settle back against the pillow. It’s probably nothing serious, you tell yourself maybe just something about Julie’s failed trigonometry test.

Still, the muffled voices pull at you, keeping you from fully relaxing. The soft glow of your phone screen catches your eye, and you pick it up, hoping to distract yourself. You scroll idly, trying to ignore the tension in the air, but your mind keeps wandering back to the distant argument and whatever it could mean.

You scroll through your Instagram feed, casually liking and commenting on your friends’ posts. It's a quiet, mindless routine that helps you unwind. But then something catches your eye—a notification. Someone’s been liking your posts.

You pause, frowning slightly. It’s strange. You don’t follow many people from school—just Julie and Lena. The rest of your followers are online friends, mutuals, and a few celebrities.

You swallow hard, brushing the thought aside and going back to your feed. *It’s not a big deal. Just keep scrolling,* you tell yourself.

But before you can fully relax, another notification pops up. This time, it’s not just likes, it’s a message.

*“@caitsworld sent you a message.”*

Moments later:

*“@vi.unfiltered sent you a message.”*

Your heart skips a beat as the notifications sit there, glaring at you from the top of your screen. For a second, you don’t even move, your thumb hovering over the screen.

Deciding not to open the messages just yet, you swipe down to check your notifications instead. Your stomach drops when you see it.

Caitlyn Kiramman and Vi. They’ve found your account. Not only that, but they’re liking your posts you’ve shared weeks, even months ago.

Your eyes widen, your heart hammering in your chest. How did they even find you? And why now?

Your thoughts race as you stare at the notifications, the pit in your stomach growing heavier with each passing second. Caitlyn and Vi the Caitlyn and Vi were combing through your profile like it was the most fascinating thing in the world.

One by one, more likes roll in, filling your screen. Nine posts. That’s all you had on your page, and they’d liked every single one. Every photo, every memory, now tainted with their sudden attention.

It felt suffocating, invasive, like they were picking apart a piece of your life you had tried so hard to keep private. And yet, you couldn’t look away from the barrage of notifications lighting up your phone.

Then, something new catches your eye. Caitlyn had left a comment. The bold text of her username sat under one of your photos, mocking your attempt to ignore it. You hesitantly click to see what she said.

“Didn’t know Julie was such a cute friend,” Caitlyn wrote.

It was under a picture of you, Julie, and Lena at a festival last summer. Her words carried a familiar charm, but they felt calculated, as if she wanted you to know she was watching. You swallow hard, glancing back at the post. Caitlyn knew Julie and Lena. She’d interacted with them before. The comment wasn’t random, it was deliberate, targeted.

You decide to ignore the comment, shutting off your phone and placing it facedown on the nightstand. Whatever Caitlyn and Vi were trying to do, it could wait until tomorrow. Right now, you just wanted to sleep.

As you shift under the covers, trying to get comfortable, the sharp slam of a door echoes through the quiet house. You freeze for a moment, remembering the argument Lena and Julie were having.

Your first instinct was to get up and check on Julie. She’s always the one to take these things to heart, even if she tries to act tough. But you hesitate, knowing how they both get when they’re upset. They need space to cool off, and the last thing you want is to get caught in the middle of it.

You sink back into the bed with a sigh, pulling the blanket up to your chin. You’d check on them in the morning when things had hopefully calmed down. For now, you focus on blocking out the muffled voices and letting the exhaustion of the day pull you into sleep.

——

Walking into your biochemistry class with your headphones in, you glance up and spot Caitlyn sitting in her seat, her eyes glued to her phone with a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She hasn’t noticed you yet, and for a split second, you’re tempted to turn around and walk out before she sees you.

But after a moment of hesitation, you push forward and walk to the seat by the window, just inches away from Caitlyn. As soon as you approach, she looks up and grins. “Hello, pretty,” she says with a playful smirk, scooting her chair slightly to give you space to settle in.

You don’t respond to her greeting, instead focusing on getting your notes and supplies out of your bag, keeping your eyes fixed on the task at hand.

Once you settle into your seat, you open your notebook, take off your headphones, and start doodling absentmindedly, waiting for the professor to walk in. The room fills with the usual low hum of students settling in, but Caitlyn doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to break the silence. Instead, she just stares at you, her eyes fixed on your face as if trying to figure out what to say next. You feel her gaze but keep your focus on your doodles, pretending not to notice.

She doesn’t speak, continuing to study you quietly. Her intense stare doesn’t waver, not even when the professor walks in.

“Welcome back to class, students. I hope you learned something useful yesterday,” he says, setting his bag down on the desk. He writes his name on the board, followed by a few important points for the day’s lesson, but you can still feel Caitlyn’s gaze lingering on you from the corner of your eye.

She leans in slightly, her chin resting on her hand as she glances at your notebook. “So,” Caitlyn murmurs, her voice soft enough that the professor doesn’t notice. “Did you enjoy my little... Instagram surprise?” Your pen freezes mid-word. You glance at her, trying to gauge if she’s joking, but her smirk tells you everything.

Your pen freezes mid-word. You glance at her, trying to gauge if she’s joking, but her smirk tells you everything it wasn’t a coincidence. Caitlyn leans in closer, her elbow propped on the desk, looking thoroughly entertained by your reaction.

“Don’t tell me you didn’t notice,” she continues, her voice low and teasing, her eyes flicking toward your notebook before returning to your face. “I mean, Vi and I don’t usually go through that much effort for someone. You should feel special.”

You press your lips into a thin line, refusing to give her the satisfaction of a response. Instead, you go back to doodling, pretending to be unbothered, though your grip on the pen tightens.

Caitlyn doesn’t stop. “You didn’t even comment back,” she says with a dramatic sigh, as if truly offended. “I thought maybe you’d appreciate the attention. Isn’t that what people post for, anyway?”

The professor clears his throat, scanning the room for the source of the talking. When his eyes land on Caitlyn leaning toward you, a smirk spreads across his face. “Ms. Kiramman, talking in my class?” he says pointedly. Caitlyn turns to him with an exaggerated roll of her eyes, clearly unbothered.

But Jayce isn’t done. “I wonder what your mother would say about you being disruptive in my class,” he adds, his tone sharper now.

Caitlyn’s eyes narrow slightly, her posture straightening. The room grows tense as a few students glance over, sensing the brewing confrontation. “I wonder what she would say about you...” Caitlyn pauses, her lips curling into a sly smile, “...if she knew you spent more time nitpicking your students than teaching the actual material Jayce.” Her voice is calm but biting, and the class collectively holds its breath.

The professor’s smirk falters for a split second at Caitlyn’s casual use of his first name. A wave of whispers ripples through the class, and a few students stifle laughs, eagerly watching the tension unfold.

Jayce straightens, gripping his marker a little too tightly. “Ms. Kiramman,” he says, his tone clipped. “I don’t recall giving you permission to address me so informally.”

Caitlyn leans back in her chair, arms crossed, exuding unbothered confidence. “Oh, my apologies... Professor Talis,” she replies with a mock sweetness that only sharpens the edge in her tone. “I’m just trying to meet the same level of professionalism you bring to the classroom.”

The room is silent now, the kind of silence that feels heavy and electric. Even you can’t help but glance at her in disbelief. Caitlyn’s audacity seems boundless, and while part of you wants to roll your eyes, another part can’t deny how effortlessly she commands attention.

Jayce takes a deep breath, visibly attempting to maintain his composure. “Perhaps if you put as much effort into your studies as you do into your... commentary, you’d actually excel in this course,” he retorts before turning back to the board, clearly signaling the end of the exchange.

Caitlyn doesn’t seem fazed, her lips curling into a faint smirk as she leans back in her chair. Her eyes, however, drift right back to you. You feel the weight of her gaze before she even speaks.

“You can ignore me all you want, Y/N,” she whispers, her tone dropping into something softer, more persuasive. “But we both know this isn’t over.”

Your stomach twists. You keep your eyes fixed on your notebook, pretending to focus on the professor’s notes, but the words blur together. Caitlyn’s presence feels suffocating, her voice still lingering in your ears. You silently curse yourself for not just skipping class altogether.

The lecture drags on, the professor’s words a distant hum in the background as your thoughts race. Every so often, you catch Caitlyn shifting in her seat, her pen tapping against the desk in a rhythm that feels deliberately designed to remind you she’s still there, still waiting.

When class finally ends, you’re the first to pack up, eager to escape the suffocating tension. You sling your bag over your shoulder and make a beeline for the door, but Caitlyn’s voice stops you just as you step into the hallway.

“Y/N, wait up!” she calls, her tone casual but laced with that same infuriating confidence.

You stop reluctantly, turning just enough to see her strolling toward you, her usual smirk firmly in place.

“What do you want, Caitlyn?” you ask, your voice sharper than you intended.

She raises an eyebrow, clearly amused by your reaction. “Just wanted to check in,” she says smoothly. “You seemed... distracted today.”

“I wonder why,” you mutter under your breath, turning to walk away, but Caitlyn matches your pace effortlessly.

“Come on, pretty,” she says, her voice dropping into something almost playful. “No need to be so defensive. I was just trying to make things interesting.”

“Interesting isn’t the word I’d use,” you shoot back, keeping your eyes forward.

“Then what word would you use?” she asks, her tone lighter now, teasing.

You don’t answer, refusing to give her the satisfaction. But Caitlyn doesn’t seem to mind. If anything, your silence only fuels her.

“See you around, Y/N,” she says finally, her voice carrying that same confidence as always. And just like that, she’s gone, leaving you standing in the hallway with a mix of frustration and something else you can’t quite name.

—-

You walk over to Julie’s locker, spotting her staring at her phone, absorbed in whatever’s on the screen. You hesitate for a moment, unsure whether to bring up the argument she and Lena had last night. You don’t want to interfere or make things worse. But before you can decide, Julie looks up, catching your gaze. Her face softens, and she forces a smile, though it doesn’t quite reach her eyes.

She walks over to you and gives you a hug before interlocking her hands with yours. You smile at your best friend before breaking the silence “You’re not gonna tell me what happened?” you finally ask, breaking the silence. Your voice is soft but edged with curiosity.

Julie glances at you, her lips pressed into a thin line. “It’s nothing, Y/N. Don’t worry about it.”

You stop walking, forcing her to pause and turn back toward you. “Julie, come on. I’m not stupid. I heard you two arguing last night, and it didn’t sound like ‘nothing.’ What’s going on?”

Julie sighs, her shoulders slumping slightly as she pulls her hand out of yours and runs it through her hair. She glances around, almost like she’s avoiding eye contact, clearly wrestling with whether she’s ready to open up. “It’s just... a lot, I guess,” she starts, her voice softer than usual. You nod, silently encouraging her to continue. You’re here to listen.

“I love her,” Julie says quietly, her words weighed down with emotion. “I really do. But it feels like I’m the only one trying to make this work.” She shakes her head, frustration lacing her voice. “We live together, Y/N, and anytime we argue, I have to be the one to step up, apologize first, even when I’m not the one in the wrong. I shouldn’t have to do that every time we disagree about something, you know?”

You give her a small nod of understanding. This isn’t the first time Julie’s expressed her frustrations with Lena, but you can tell this time feels different. There’s something heavier in her words.

Julie pauses for a moment, chewing on her bottom lip. "I know I’m... insufferable to be around sometimes. But I do try. I try to change…for myself, for her. Every single day. Because I do see a future with her." Her voice falters, and you can see the deep-rooted frustration written all over her face. She’s holding back, trying so hard not to directly criticize Lena, but it’s clear this is all weighing on her.

You step closer, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Julie, you're not insufferable. You’re doing the best you can, and that’s all anyone can ask for."

Julie doesn’t immediately respond, but the quiet look she gives you speaks volumes. You know she feels torn between the love she has for Lena and the frustration of trying to make it work alone. And as much as Julie tries to protect Lena, she can’t hide the exhaustion in her eyes.

Julie takes a deep breath, her eyes dropping to the ground as she searches for the right words. "I don’t want to sound like I’m complaining or ungrateful. She has her own issues, too. She’s not perfect. But... when we’re together, it feels like she’s always pulling away. Like she has her own life, her own priorities, and I’m just... not a part of it sometimes. She says she wants space, but honestly, it feels more like she’s just trying to get away from me."

Her voice wavers slightly, and you can see the hurt in her eyes. "I’m trying to understand, Y/N. I really am. But sometimes, I wonder if she even wants this relationship as much as I do."

You feel a twist in your stomach, knowing how much this is weighing on your friend. You gently ask, "Have you tried contacting her? Reaching out?"

Julie shakes her head, glancing down at her phone in frustration. "I’ve been texting her nonstop since yesterday. Back to back. But she’s been leaving me on read every time. Now I don’t know what to do."

her lips pressed together as if holding back the weight of everything she's been carrying. "I just wish we could communicate better. But when we talk, it feels like we’re speaking two different languages. She needs her space, but I need her to be present. And lately, it’s felt like we’re just... drifting apart."

A silence falls between you both, and you can’t help but feel for her. Watching Julie go through this isn't easy, but you know she needs to hear this. "Have you told her how you’re feeling? About needing more communication and time together?"

Julie looks up at you, her eyes tired but thoughtful. “I’ve tried. But it doesn’t always come out the way I want. When I talk to her, it feels like I’m being needy or demanding. Like I’m suffocating her when all I want is to be with her. And then I wonder if I’m the problem.”

"You're not the problem," you assure her gently, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Relationships have their ups and downs, and communication is key. But it has to go both ways. She needs to understand where you’re coming from too."

Julie nods slowly, taking in your words. "I know, but sometimes it feels like we’re just... stuck. Like we’re not moving forward." She exhales heavily, a mixture of frustration and resignation in her tone.

"I just want us to be okay, Y/N. I want to feel like we’re on the same team again."

You squeeze her hand tighter, offering her all the support you can. "I know you do. And you deserve that, Julie. You both do. I think it’s just going to take some time and effort from both of you. But I believe you’ll figure it out. You’re strong, and you know what you want."

She smiles faintly, the weight on her shoulders slightly lighter. "Thanks, Y/N. I’m glad you’re here. I really am."

"Always," you reply softly, pulling her into a quick hug. You know that things won’t change overnight, but you also know that whatever happens, you’ll be by her side through it all.

—-

Julie gives you a small smile before walking off to her next class, thanking you for your advice. You return the smile, watching her go before turning to enter the library.

The usual silence of the library wraps around you as you walk toward the back, where your favorite spot awaits. It’s tucked away, hidden behind a few tall bookshelves, far from the hustle and bustle of the main area. Not many people venture back here unless they’re really looking for solitude, and that’s exactly why you love it.

You settle into your spot, setting your things down on the table with a quiet breath. The calm of the secluded space fills you, and you’re grateful for the moment of peace. With your books open and notes in front of you, you try to focus on the material.

But as you read, your mind drifts, and Caitlyn and Vi start to occupy your thoughts. You can’t help but think about how persistent they are, how desperate they seem to get to know you. It’s almost endearing in a way, but then again, you know them well enough to understand they do this with every girl they want to get with.

You pause, wondering if you could be different. Maybe you could somehow befriend them, keep things casual and not get caught up in whatever relationship they might want.

But that’s the problem, isn’t it? They don’t just want a friendship. Whatever they set their sights on, they get, and it’s hard to imagine anything else.

The confusion still lingers. Why are they putting so much energy into getting your attention, only to act like you don’t exist the very next day? It doesn’t make sense. The whole situation feels like a mess, and you’re left wondering where it could all go or if you even want it to.

The soft hum of the library fades into the background as you try to refocus, but that nagging feeling of being watched doesn’t go away. You glance up briefly, scanning the room. At first, everything seems normal: students hunched over textbooks, a librarian quietly organizing a cart of books. But then, out of the corner of your eye, you spot two familiar figures strolling through the library doors.

Caitlyn and Vi.

Your stomach drops. It’s not that they haven’t been everywhere you’ve turned lately, but this feels different, almost deliberate.

Caitlyn spots you first. Her sharp gaze catches yours, and a smug smile spreads across her face. She nudges Vi, who glances your way. Her expression isn’t one of amusement it’s more intrigued, like she’s sizing you up. Together, they start making their way through the aisles, their footsteps casual, like this is just another random stop.

But you know better. You can feel the weight of their attention on you, and you’re left wondering if this is just another game they’re playing, or if they actually want something more.

You try to bury yourself in your notebook, pretending not to notice them. Maybe if you ignore them long enough, they’ll lose interest and leave.

“Fancy seeing you here,” Caitlyn’s voice cuts through the quiet like a knife.

You look up reluctantly to find her leaning against the edge of your table, her usual confident smirk firmly in place. Vi stands beside her, arms crossed, her piercing gaze locked on you.

“I didn’t know you were the library type,” Caitlyn continues, tilting her head slightly. “Always so studious, huh?”

“Or hiding,” Vi adds, her voice low and teasing.

“I’m not hiding,” you snap before you can stop yourself. The last thing you want to do is engage, but they have a way of pulling words out of you.

“Relax, we’re just here to say hi,” Caitlyn says, her tone dripping with amusement. She reaches out, tapping your notebook with her finger. “Working on something important?”

“Class notes,” you reply shortly, keeping your answers brief.

“Class notes?” Vi echoes, her brow arching. “Sounds thrilling.”

Caitlyn chuckles, pulling out the chair across from you and sitting down without so much as an invitation. “You don’t mind if we join you, do you? It’s such a cozy little spot you’ve got here.”

Your pulse quickens, but you force yourself to stay calm. “Actually, I was just about to leave.”

Caitlyn’s smirk deepens. “Oh, don’t go on our account. We’re harmless.”

Vi finally takes a seat as well, leaning back in her chair like she owns the place. “Besides,” she says, her voice smooth and deliberate, “you’ve been on our minds lately. Haven’t you noticed?”

Your stomach twists as you remember the Instagram notifications from last night. They know exactly what they’re doing.

“What do you want?” you ask, your voice steady despite the unease creeping up your spine.

“Who says we want anything?” Caitlyn replies, feigning innocence.

“But since you’re asking...” Vi leans forward, her eyes locking with yours. “Maybe we just want to get to know you better.”

Their words hang in the air, heavy with implication. Every instinct screams at you to leave, but something keeps you rooted to the spot. Caitlyn’s smirk, Vi’s intense stare it’s like they’re daring you to make the first move.

Their words hang in the air, thick with unspoken meaning. Every part of you screams to leave, but something keeps you frozen in place. Caitlyn’s smirk, Vi’s intense gaze it’s as if they’re daring you to make the first move, to fall into their game.

You gather your things quickly, heart pounding in your chest as you try to create distance between yourself and their electric presence. You’ve had enough of their games. The last thing you want is to be pulled back into whatever twisted power play they’re weaving.

“I’ve got to go,” you mutter, grabbing your backpack, but before you can make your escape, Caitlyn’s arms slip around your waist, pulling you back toward her. Her chin rests lightly on your shoulder, and you can feel her breath against your skin, warm and steady.

“Where do you think you’re going, Y/N? Hmm?” Caitlyn’s voice is teasing, but there’s a definite edge to it, like a warning that settles heavily in your chest.

“Let me guess,” Caitlyn continues, her voice dropping lower, controlled yet laced with amusement. “You’re going to leave, pretend like nothing’s happening, and we’ll just fade into the background, right?” Her chuckle is soft but sharp. “You think that’s how this works?”

Vi steps closer, resting her arms on the table with a deliberate motion. Her eyes track you, unwavering and intense. When she speaks, her tone is unyielding, the words slow and deliberate. “You can leave, Y/N. But it’s not going to change anything. We’re still going to be here. And we’re not going to let you walk away like it’s nothing.”

You freeze, your body tensing as the weight of their words settles over you. It feels like you’re caught in a web, each strand tightening with every second. Caitlyn’s arms are still around your waist, and Vi’s gaze never leaves you, unwavering and calculating.

You freeze, the weight of their words settling over you like a heavy, suffocating blanket. Each second feels like the strands of a web tightening, pulling you deeper into their grasp. Caitlyn’s arms are still wrapped around your waist, possessive and firm, while Vi’s gaze is locked on you, intense and predatory.

“Please... let me go,” you whisper, your voice trembling slightly as you try to steady it. You attempt to pull away from Caitlyn’s grip, but she just tightens her hold, keeping you in place, her touch searing through the fabric of your clothes.

“I don’t want to play this game anymore,” you beg, your words catching in your throat. “Please... just leave me alone.”

Caitlyn’s breath is warm against your ear as she chuckles softly, the sound both teasing and dangerous. “Game?” she murmurs, her voice rich with amusement and something darker, more insistent. “We’re not playing games, Y/N. We’re simply trying to get to know you better. You’ve been avoiding us long enough.”

Vi steps closer, her movements slow and deliberate, her eyes flicking over your face as if searching for the truth behind your mask. “We’re not trying to make things complicated,” she says, her voice smooth and coaxing, though there’s an underlying edge to it that makes you doubt her sincerity. “But you’re making it hard for us to just let this be... easy.”

Your pulse quickens as the air between you all thickens with tension, the weight of their presence smothering you. You’re caught between the desire to escape and the unsettling feeling that there’s nowhere to run. Caitlyn’s touch sends a shiver down your spine, her grip on you almost possessive, like she’s marking her territory, and Vi’s eyes intense, unwavering make your skin prickle with heat.

You struggle to breathe, the proximity of them suffocating you, the room feeling smaller with every rapid heartbeat. The air is thick, and the weight of their presence presses in on you, making it feel like you’re trapped in a cage. You’re on the verge of breaking down, the fear and frustration bubbling to the surface. All you want is to escape, but Caitlyn’s grip doesn’t loosen; if anything, it tightens, holding you in place. Even if you could break free from her hold, you know Vi would just step in, blocking your way with her calculated intensity.

“Please, I’ll do anything. Just let me go,” you beg, the words slipping from your lips like a desperate plea for mercy. Your voice cracks as tears begin to sting your eyes, threatening to spill over.

You look at Vi, your eyes wide, shaking your head as your breath comes out in uneven gasps. “I don’t want any part of this. Please, just let me go,” you plead, your voice trembling with a mix of fear and frustration. Every part of you screams to break free, but the tension in the air weighs you down, making it feel impossible to escape.

Caitlyn’s fingers continue their slow, deliberate circles on your waist, each touch igniting a sense of helplessness that makes your skin crawl. “You keep saying that, but you're still here,” she murmurs against your ear, her lips brushing lightly against your skin. “We’re not making you stay, Y/N. You choose to stay, every time.”

Vi watches you, her eyes cold and calculating. She tilts her head slightly, studying your face as if she’s savoring your reaction. “It doesn’t have to be like this,” she says, the words dripping with something darker than just coaxing. “You can walk away. But you’re still here. What does that tell you?”

Your heart pounds in your chest, a mix of adrenaline and unease coursing through your veins as you struggle to catch your breath. “I don’t want this,” you murmur, your voice barely above a whisper, eyes flicking nervously between them. Yet, the air around you feels charged, their presence heavy and impossible to ignore, like a force pulling you under.

“Then why haven’t you walked away?” Caitlyn’s voice drips with quiet challenge, her words laced with a teasing edge that sends a shiver down your spine. She releases her hold on you, her gaze never wavering, and with a firm but unhurried push, she guides you down into the chair. Before you can process, they close the space around you, their proximity overwhelming, leaving you breathless and cornered.

Caitlyn’s fingers trace along your jawline, her smile deceptively soft as she leans closer, her breath warm against your skin. “We just want to be your friends,” she repeats, her tone sweet but layered with something far more sinister. Her eyes bore into yours, as if daring you to contradict her.

Your chest tightens, your pulse hammering against your ribs. You hate this, everything about it feels wrong but your body refuses to move, locked in place by their unrelenting presence. The air around you feels heavy, suffocating, and no matter how much you want to get away, it’s as if the weight of them keeps you tethered.

“What do you want from me?” you manage to choke out, your voice trembling despite your attempt to sound firm.

Caitlyn tilts her head, her lips curling into a smirk. “Oh, it’s not what we want from you,” she murmurs, her fingers gently pressing your chin up so you can’t look away. “It’s what we want with you.”

Vi steps closer, her presence looming over you like a storm. Her hands grip the back of your chair, boxing you in even further. “The question, Y/N,” she says, her voice low and rough, “is what you really want. You can keep pretending, keep fighting it, but we can see it in your eyes.” Her gaze is unwavering, and it feels like she’s stripping you bare with just a look.

Caitlyn’s lips brush the edge of your ear as she whispers, “So, tell us. Are you going to keep lying to yourself, or are you ready to stop running?”

Ⓒ︎ seulszn

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