Days passed, but Emma couldn't shake the feeling that everything was shifting beneath her feet. She kept replaying Ethan's last visit—how he laughed a little too easily when Lily's name came up, how his eyes lingered just a moment longer on her.
That night, Emma lay awake, tangled in sheets and thoughts. Jealousy gnawed at her like a silent predator. She wanted to trust Ethan, but the doubt wrapped tight around her heart.
The next morning, she texted Lily, asking to meet. They met at the old park bench where they had shared countless childhood secrets. Emma's voice trembled when she finally spoke.
"Lily, do you and Ethan…?"
Lily looked surprised but composed. "We dated a long time ago, Emma. It's over."
"But do you still feel something?"
Lily shook her head. "No. You're the one I care about now. I want you to be happy."
Emma wanted to believe her. But deep down, the jealousy wouldn't loosen its grip.