Chapter 3

In a dark corner of the private room, Ryan and Claire, the school beauty, were sitting very close together.

Claire was wearing a crop top and tight jeans tonight, showing off her slim waist and long legs.

The two of them were clearly separated from the rest of the group.

Even when they talked, it looked like they were whispering sweet nothings to each other.

The flirtatious atmosphere was palpable even through the screen.

My chest tightened uncontrollably.

Ryan had just said this afternoon that he wanted to pursue her. It seems he had already succeeded by evening.

Claire drew a "Truth or Dare" card that required her to do push-ups with a guy on top. She had to choose a male participant.

Unsurprisingly, Ryan immediately volunteered.

Everyone started cheering and teasing them.

Claire's face turned red as she obediently lay down on the sofa.

Ryan positioned himself above her and easily did dozens of push-ups.

He was very restrained the whole time, carefully avoiding touching Claire's body.

Until the very last one, whether he finally lost his strength or did it on purpose.

He couldn't hold himself up and collapsed directly on top of Claire.

The screams around them grew even louder, nearly taking the roof off.

Ryan and Claire's faces turned even redder.

Amid the crowd's frenzied cheering, Ryan simply lowered his head and kissed Claire.

The two of them made out passionately, oblivious to everyone else.

It went on for a full three minutes before they reluctantly separated.

During those endless three minutes, I stared at the screen unblinkingly, so shocked I almost forgot to breathe.

My heart felt like it was being torn apart.

I wanted to cry, but I had cried too much earlier without drinking water, so I had no tears left.

"Tsk tsk tsk, Mia did you see that clearly? They were French kissing with tongue and everything. He's totally into her."

Lily sighed as she turned the camera and left the private room.

She found a quiet corner and earnestly advised me:

"Mia, don't blame me. If I didn't let you see it with your own eyes, you wouldn't give up on him."

My throat was dry and the sounds I made were barely audible.

"Mm, I don't blame you."

I only blame myself for being so stupid for so many years.

I thought that since I was always allowed to follow Ryan around, that position by his side would always be mine.

"I just can't stand Ryan. What gives him the right to string you along for years, knowing you like him, pretending to be an innocent boy while watching you fall deeper and deeper.

"Now you've seen it clearly. I really hope you'll seriously reconsider. Don't let him waste another four years of your life in college..."

"I won't, Lily."

I interrupted her, stating calmly.

"I won't give myself another chance.

"Lily, I've decided. I'm going to college in Florida with you.

"But you have to promise to keep it a secret for now."