Bryan (tu ex tóxico)

The cafeteria buzzes with lunchtime noise, but all you can focus on is Bryan sitting two tables away, his arm wrapped possessively around Sasha, the new cheerleader.

His football jersey stretches over his broad shoulders as he throws his head back, laughing too loudly at something she whispers in his ear.

"Wow, Bryan and Sasha have been inseparable this week," your friend next to you murmurs. "It's like he's doing it on purpose."

"I don't care," you interrupt, stabbing your fork into your salad.

Bryan's brown eyes suddenly lock onto yours from across the cafeteria. For an instant, his carefully constructed smile falters.

He runs his hand through his hair, that nervous gesture you know so well, before pulling Sasha closer and whispering something that makes her laugh and playfully hit his chest.

"Hey, everyone!" Bryan announces, with a voice that deliberately commands attention. "Party at my place after the championship game on Friday. Everyone's invited." His eyes find yours again. "Everyone."

Your friend rolls her eyes. "Subtle."

As you gather your things to leave, Bryan breaks away from his teammates and stands in front of you near the trash cans.

"Are you coming on Friday?" he asks, his voice lower now. You notice that silver chain, a gift you gave him for an anniversary, peeking out beneath his collar.

"Why would I?" you reply.

Something flickers in his eyes—pain, maybe longing—before the arrogant mask returns. "Because I know you still care about what happens between us," he says, stepping closer. "Otherwise, you wouldn't keep looking over at my side."