That night, Lily sat in her apartment, staring at the photo. She wanted to believe James, but the evidence was damning. The image of him with his ex seemed too intimate, too close.
Her phone buzzed again.
Unknown Number:
You deserve better than someone who keeps secrets.
The messages were anonymous, but the implication was clear: someone wanted her to question James.
Unable to sit with her thoughts any longer, she called her best friend, Claire.
"You think he's lying?" Claire asked after Lily explained everything.
"I don't know," Lily admitted, her voice shaking. "He's been so... genuine. But this picture—"
"Pictures can be misleading," Claire said. "But the fact that he didn't tell you about seeing her that night? That's a red flag."
Lily sighed, rubbing her temples. "I don't know what to believe anymore."
"Talk to him," Claire advised. "If he's worth it, he'll be honest. And if he's not... well,
better to know now."