The Misplaced Love of Childhood Sweethearts

I took Owen's hand, and in front of everyone, I pretended to be strong as we made our hasty exit from the cinema.

Once outside, I yanked my hand away from his and shot him a glare filled with frustration.

"You seriously didn't know about Bruce and Kate?"

"Don't look at me like that! I didn't hear a single whisper!"

Owen kicked a small stone by the sidewalk, turning to confront me. "Aren't you the one who's supposed to know everything about Kate? You had no clue?"

"Ugh! I've become a pawn in their little game!"

I scoffed, realizing how ridiculous this all was.

Kate knew I liked Bruce, and Bruce knew Owen had a crush on Kate.

They were both my friends and his friends, yet they kept this secret from us. It felt like they didn't even consider us friends anymore!

What a mess!

When I got home, my parents were still at work. I was too restless to stay alone, so I headed over to Owen's place.

He was home alone, too; his dad was away on business, and his mom was still at the community center playing poker.

Owen had ordered three dishes from a restaurant downstairs and bought two dozen beers, ready to dig in.

Without hesitation, I plopped down at the table and started eating.

He cracked open two cans of beer, and we each took one, munching and sipping in silence.

I was heartbroken, and he was just as lost.

We had talked about finding people to date, but here we were, both single and miserable!

The guy I liked was with the girl he liked. It was downright absurd!