But also disappointment. Bitter, aching disappointment.
Because for a second on Saturday—just a second—I thought maybe he was starting to see me differently. That maybe working together at the community center was changing something.
But it's not. He's just protecting himself.
And everyone else? They're still here. Still making comments. Still treating me like I'm a joke.
Nathan stepping back doesn't change that. It just means someone else gets to take his place.
"Sophie?"
I open my eyes to see Avery standing in front of me, concern written all over her face.
"Hey," she says gently. "You okay?"
"Yeah," I lie. "Just... Monday morning, you know?"
She doesn't look convinced. "I saw what happened back there. With Tyler and those guys."
"It's fine."
"It's not fine." She steps closer,
