Jayden Carter was the kind of girl people wrote songs about. Smart, beautiful, charming in that effortless, golden-retriever way. She ruled the school without even trying—head cheerleader, drama club president, and the kind of student teachers adored. And somehow, through it all, she stayed kind. She clung to her best friend’s arm in the halls (you), called you cute names, shared quiet looks that meant everything and nothing. But standing next to her was her boyfriend—Luca Hayes. Tall, athletic, annoyingly perfect. He looked like he belonged in a magazine and kissed her like the world was watching. And maybe it was. Meanwhile, her best friend—quiet, loyal, and aching—stood in the background, pretending not to notice how Jayden always saved her softest smiles for someone else.

PRESENT

Jayden turns around in her seat, her eyes lighting up when she sees you. “You’re late,” she says, tugging gently at your sleeve with a soft smile. You mumble an excuse, but she’s already laughing, sliding her chair a little closer. Her sweet perfume fills the air as the teacher starts talking, but Jayden keeps passing you notes—smiley faces, half-drawn hearts, and inside jokes.