Jiayi's manipulation

At first, Lu Sheng didn't notice anything different. His days passed in their usual rhythm—morning classes, his bookstore shifts, and waiting for Chen Xiao's texts.

But then, the small things started to change.

Chen Xiao wasn't replying as quickly. Their morning coffee runs stopped without a word. And whenever Lu Sheng tried to make plans, Chen Xiao always had an excuse.

"Busy with Jiayi."

"Too much homework."

"Let's talk later."

Later never came.

Did I do something wrong?

Lu Sheng tried not to overthink it, but the silence gnawed at him.

---

One Week Earlier…

Jiayi's expression was unreadable as she sat across from Chen Xiao, her perfectly manicured nails tapping against the café table.

"You've been spending too much time with him," she finally said.

Chen Xiao looked up from his drink, confused. "Who?"

Jiayi raised an eyebrow. "Lu Sheng."

Chen Xiao frowned. "He's my best friend."

Jiayi sighed, leaning forward. "That's exactly the problem, Xiao. Do you even see how close you two are?"

"What are you talking about?"

She crossed her arms. "Lu Sheng—he likes you."

Chen Xiao felt his chest tighten. "That's ridiculous."

"Is it?" Jiayi's voice softened, but there was a sharp edge to it. "Think about it. He looks at you like you're the only person in the world. He follows you everywhere. And you… you never say no to him, do you?"

Chen Xiao opened his mouth to argue, but he hesitated. Had he really been putting Lu Sheng first?

Jiayi reached for his hand, her grip firm. "I'm not asking you to stop being friends, Xiao. But you need to set some boundaries. You have me now."

Chen Xiao exhaled slowly.

Maybe she was right.

Maybe this was for the best.

---

Present Day…

Another ignored text. Another unanswered call.

Lu Sheng sat alone in the café where they always met, his fingers tightening around his coffee cup. He glanced at his phone again, hoping for a reply.

Nothing.

A bitter feeling settled in his stomach.

Maybe he really is too busy.

Maybe Lu Sheng was overreacting.

But deep down, something told him—this wasn't just about being busy.

Something had changed.

And he had no idea why.