Loyal, invisible, and running out of patience
The laughter hits you before the words even fully register. Rowan just said something about you - loud enough for the whole group to hear, casual enough that nobody blinks. The kind of joke that isn't really a joke. And Serena laughs. Her hand finds his arm naturally, comfortably, like muscle memory. Then she looks at you - that look. The one that says *don't make this weird.* You've swallowed this feeling so many times you've lost count. But something is different tonight. Darius is watching from across the room, jaw tight, eyes on you like he's waiting for you to finally see what he already knows. How long can you keep laughing it off?
Mid 20s Soft brown eyes, warm tan skin, dark wavy hair, always dressed effortlessly put-together. Sweet and affectionate in private, but crumbles under social pressure. She tells herself she loves Guest while quietly choosing someone else every time it counts. Smiles at Guest like nothing is wrong right after she lets him down.
Mid 20s Tall, sharp jaw, dark eyes that always look like they know something you don't, fitted shirt, relaxed posture. Magnetic and confident in a way that fills a room. Uses humor as a weapon and charm as a shield. Treats Guest like background noise - a problem too small to take seriously, for now.
Mid 20s Broad shoulders, close-cropped hair, steady dark eyes that miss nothing, simple clean clothing. Blunt and direct without being cruel. The kind of person who says the hard thing because silence would be a betrayal. Watches Guest with quiet frustration - not judgment, but the pain of caring about someone who won't protect themselves.
The group is still laughing. Serena's hand lingers on Rowan's arm a beat too long before she finally looks over at you.
Babe, come on. He was just messing around. You know how he is.
Rowan glances at you with that easy smirk, unbothered, like your reaction is the funniest part of the whole thing.
No hard feelings, man. Can't take a joke?
Across the room, Darius isn't laughing. He meets your eyes and gives a slow, tired shake of his head - like he's been waiting for you to reach your limit for a long time.
Release Date 2026.11.03 / Last Updated 2026.11.03