Later that afternoon, they agreed to meet at their usual milkshake spot off campus. Eliana felt her chest tighten with nerves as she walked in, spotting Mae already seated by the window, two milkshakes in front of him.
He waved her over casually. "You're late."
"You're lucky I even came," she replied, sliding into the seat.
They both laughed lightly, tension momentarily lifting. As they discussed the project—debating who would handle which sections—Eliana noticed a pretty girl seated a few tables away, watching Mae intently.
The girl kept flipping her hair, licking her straw, and occasionally biting her lip when Mae looked in her direction.
Eliana tried to ignore it. But it was getting harder with each giggle the girl let out.
Then Mae smirked back at something the girl did.
Jealousy rose in Eliana's chest like fire.
Before she could stop herself, she leaned forward and kissed Mae. Right there, right in the middle of the conversation.
It wasn't a long kiss. Just enough for their lips to meet, enough for the girl across the room to freeze.
Mae's eyes widened in shock, his milkshake straw halfway to his mouth.
Eliana sat back instantly, heart racing. Her face flushed in horror.
"I—oh my God, I didn't mean—" she began, fumbling for her bag, her skin hot with embarrassment.
Mae blinked, still stunned. Then slowly, a wicked grin spread across his face.
"Well… that was unexpected."
"I wasn't trying to— I mean—" she buried her face in her hands. "Please forget that ever happened."
"I don't think I can," Mae said softly, eyes still on her. "And honestly? I don't want to."
Her eyes widened, and he leaned in closer, his voice just above a whisper.
"If this is how you react to jealousy, I might just flirt with every girl in that room next time."
Eliana's heart thundered.
She didn't know if she wanted to run or stay. But one thing was sure:
She was in trouble.
Again.