Rumors spread faster than truth.
By the end of the week, whispers followed me through the halls.
"That's the girl who liked Aiden."
"Isn't she the reason Amira looks uncomfortable?"
"I heard she's jealous."
I kept my head down. I didn't defend myself. I didn't explain. Some battles weren't worth fighting.
But Calvin didn't see it that way.
We were standing near our lockers when one of the girls laughed behind me. "It's embarrassing, honestly. Still clinging when he's moved on."
Before I could react, Calvin turned.
"Say that again," he said calmly.
The laughter stopped.
"You don't know anything about her," he continued. "And you definitely don't get to rewrite her story just because it's easier than minding your own business."
The girl scoffed. "Why do you care so much?"
Calvin didn't hesitate. "Because she's my best friend."
Silence fell.
I stared at him, stunned.
Later, when we were alone, I finally spoke. "You didn't have to do that."
"I wanted to," he replied simply. "You deserve better than being someone else's rumor."
My throat tightened. "Thank you."
He smiled softly. "Anytime. That's what I'm here for."
From across the courtyard, Xavier watched us.
His expression didn't change—but his fists clenched at his sides.
And though I didn't notice it yet, something inside him had shifted too