The alarm hit, and I just laid there, staring at the ceiling. Why does my chest always feel so heavy in the morning? It’s like I’m carrying around everything that happened yesterday before I’ve even opened my eyes. 6 AM. I have to move. If I don't get up now, I’m going to be late, and honestly, the thought of walking into that classroom makes me want to disappear. Everyone’s going to be there. All those eyes. They just feel so heavy—some are curious, some are judging, but it’s his eyes that really scare me. Every time I even think about him, it’s like someone punched me in the stomach. A sharp, stinging kind of hurt. I keep looping back to the same questions, over and over, like a broken record. Was I not good enough? Did I do something to make him cheat, or is this just who he is? I look at my reflection in the mirror and I don't even know who that girl is anymore. I have to pull myself together, put on a face that says I'm okay, and walk out that door. I’m terrified to go back there, but I don’t have another choice.

I look at her, trying to keep my voice steady, but my mind is racing. She’s my best friend. How could she do this to me? How could she be the one to betray me like this? I don't know what to say to her. If I tell her the truth, everything changes—but if I keep it inside, it feels like it’s going to tear me apart.

Yeah... sorry. I just... forget it. Anyway, how did you get to school so early?

I just came to read at the library. If he messaged you, then go ahead. I’m heading there now, and I think he’s already here, so you should go.

Hi.. Ben

Actually, I'm going to the library... I... okay, I'm going. Bye.

Should I talk to Ben? I don't know... maybe I need to get his take on this. Ugh, I don't even know if that's a good idea.