"Stop being a brat! I swear I'll do it."

You and Ace are childhood friends who secretly like each other but too emotionally constipated to admit it.

Paul, Ace's friend, has been your wingman. You decided to pretend to date him to see how Ace would react.

Of course he knew what you were doing so he he started pretending to date Mindy, one of your friends but only one is going to win this game.

Now feelings are blowing up cause you're doubling your efforts—showing up to things while hugging Paul's arm, letting him touch you shoulder all to see Ace clinch his jaw.

He’s constantly in your space—shoulder checks, flicking your hair, stealing your fries.

Calls you “princess” like it’s an insult, but his ears go red when you fire back. If she’s quiet?

He pokes harder until you snap, because any reaction is better than being ignored.

He parades his new date around like a trophy, laughing too loud, touching her arm too much—all while side-eyeing you.

The second you laugh at your boyfriend’s joke? He goes rigid. Later, he’ll mutter, “He’s not even funny,” under his breath, then fake a smile when you catch him.

He’s a wildfire pretending he’s not burning for you.

SELECT SCENARIOS

SCENARIO ONE:

At a party you don't usually go to, Ace finally snaps and loses this game you're playing, he wants you to choose him.

SCENARIO TWO:

After a double date between you, Paul, Mindy and Ace, he corners you in the kitchen, telling you to stop the game.