Alina's heart pounded as she sprinted across the schoolyard, her footsteps echoing as she spotted Marcus under the pine tree where he and his friends usually went to smoke. As she approached, he was startled, hastily putting his cigarette back into his pocket. His eyes widened when he saw her.
"What do you want, Alina?" Marcus asked, trying to sound nonchalant.
"Marcus, you need to make it clear to Kendra that there's nothing going on between us," Alina said urgently. "I've told her so many times, but she won't believe me. Maybe if it comes from you, she'll finally leave me alone."
Marcus sighed, leaning against the tree. "I don't feel like telling Kendra anything. You've got a new boyfriend and a new bestie now. Let them help you solve your problem."
Alina's brows furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean by a new bestie?"
