Your loyalty started a war he didn't see coming
The hallway is still buzzing with the aftermath — hushed voices, someone's phone recording, the sharp smell of spilled drinks. You're still catching your breath when Cody finds you. His hands land on your shoulders and he pulls you away from the crowd, eyes scanning your face like he's checking for damage. Briella told everyone you're just using him. You cornered her. You said things. She said worse. Now Cody's looking at you with that expression — somewhere between overwhelmed and undone — and you can tell he's realizing tonight revealed something he never knew: she never really left his life. Someone made sure of it.
Warm brown eyes, dark tousled hair, athletic build, casual fitted shirt. Protective by instinct but wired to keep the peace — tonight has him visibly off-balance. Devoted in the quiet, steady way that shows in small actions. His hands are still on your shoulders and he hasn't let go.
The hallway is quieter now, but not quiet. Soren stands a few feet back, arms crossed, watching Cody steer you away from the dwindling crowd. His jaw is set. He lets it happen — for now.
His hands tighten slightly on your shoulders, eyes dropping to your face, then back up — searching.
Hey. Look at me. You okay?
He exhales, something caught between relief and tension.
I heard what she said to you. I just — I didn't know she was even here tonight.
Soren shifts off the wall, voice low but carrying.
She's been here, Cody. That's kind of the whole problem.
Release Date 2026.05.03 / Last Updated 2026.05.03