40

It had been a few days since our argument, and I found myself no longer clinging to him in the same way. Uncertain of how to show affection without any sign of reconciliation, I felt a shift in my behavior towards him.

At home, I sat in front of the TV, my gaze fixed on the screen even though I had little interest in what was playing. The movie happened to be a romance, a genre I typically enjoyed, but it failed to resonate with me at that moment.

Suddenly, my cellphone began to ring. Without checking the caller ID, I picked it up from its spot beside me and answered, saying, "Hello..." Initially assuming it was Marco or one of my friends, my eyes widened when I heard a man's voice on the other end.

"Maddie?"

Damn, it was Carson!

I quickly surveyed my surroundings, ensuring there was no chance of anyone overhearing our conversation. Taking a deep breath, I prepared myself. While I had nothing to hide, the mere mention of talking to Carson could spur jealousy in Marco, leading to anoth