I feel my eyes sting, and I try hard not to let the tears fall. I don’t want Julie to see me like this.

I saw Emily talking to Oliver so many times today. I thought it was just harmless small talk between friends. But now that I think about it, it all adds up. Every chance she gets, she clings to him. I saw the way her face lit up whenever someone mentioned his name.

The silence between us stretches and starts to feel awkward. I finally say, “Well, that’s new.”

“I’m really sorry,” Julie says quietly. She leans in and whispers, “Emily’s my best friend, but honestly? I wish he’d picked you. You’re smart and beautiful. You actually seem like his type.”

She pauses, then adds, “Emily’s kind of plain for someone like Oliver. You and Oliver would’ve looked good together. But I guess that’s not what he wants.”

“Did you tell Emily about me and Oliver?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

“No, of course not,” she says quickly. “I’d never do that. I’m not about to break her heart.”

“Please…, keep this between us,” I say, almost begging. Emily’s part of that group that always looks down on me. I don’t want to end up as their next joke.

Julie nods. “I want that too. I won’t say a word. But you have to promise not to tell Oliver I said anything. It would cause a mess at home. You get it, right?”

“I do. I won’t say anything. Promise.”

She walks away, looking satisfied.

I didn’t see Oliver after lunch. His backpack was gone, so I figured he had already left. I had no clue if he’d still show up at 3.30 at my secret spot like we planned. Maybe he would. Maybe he wouldn’t. Maybe Julie’s warning scared him off. Or maybe he’d show up like nothing happened.

I don’t even know if I should go. I don’t deserve this. Maybe it’s time I told him I’m done playing these stupid games.

After school, I head to my spot. I check my phone, hoping he messaged me like he did yesterday. Nothing.

He doesn’t come at 3.30. I keep checking the time, getting more frustrated by the minute. I pace along the track, glancing down the path he might take.

But he never shows up.