The group had started spending more time together—movie nights at Charlotte’s place, late-night drives with Liam at the wheel, and study sessions at The Maple Brew. Everything seemed perfect. Well, almost everything.


    Because Henry was struggling.


    Emma & Liam: A Promise Under the Stars


    One evening, after closing the café, Emma and Liam sat on the rooftop, sipping milkshakes. The city lights twinkled in the distance, but Emma was too focused on Liam’s expression—he looked deep in thought.


    "What’s on your mind?" she asked.


    Liam smirked. "You."


    Emma rolled her eyes. "Be serious."


    He set his milkshake down and reached for her hand. "I mean it. Being with you… it’s different. Feels like home."


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    Emma’s heart melted. "Liam…"


    He squeezed her hand. "Promise me something?"


    "What?"


    "No matter what happens—family drama, college stress, life—we won’t let anything change us."


    Emma smiled. "I promise."


    She didn’t know it then, but that promise would mean everything in the days to come.


    ---


    Charlotte & Oliver: A Late-Night Rescue


    Charlotte wasn’t one to ask for help, but when she found herself locked out of her house after forgetting her keys inside, she had no choice.


    She knocked on Oliver’s door, arms crossed. "Laugh and I leave."


    Oliver smirked, leaning against the doorway. "You’re giving me way too much credit. I’m laughing inside."


    "Just let me stay until my parents get home."


    Oliver stepped aside, letting her in. "Can I at least make fun of you a little?"


    Charlotte groaned. "I hate you."


    "Nah, you like me."


    She didn’t respond, but as she sat on his couch, watching him make hot chocolate, she had to admit—she didn’t mind being here.


    ---


    Millie, Lucas & Henry: A Game of Hearts


    That weekend, they had a game night at Lucas’s house. The group played a mix of board games, but it was Truth or Dare that changed everything.


    "Millie," Oliver said, spinning the bottle. "Truth or dare?"


    "Truth!"


    Oliver smirked. "Do you have a crush on anyone right now?"


    Millie blushed. "M-maybe…"


    Lucas nudged her. "Ooh, do I know them?"


    Henry’s heart pounded. He didn’t realize he was holding his breath.


    Millie bit her lip before nodding. "Yeah… you do."


    Lucas grinned, but Henry felt his stomach drop.


    He already knew the answer.


    And for the first time, he wished he didn’t.


    ---


    To Be Continued