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Sophie dropped her backpack by the door and flopped onto her bed, already dreading the crowded party Biana was so excited about. Biana, on the other hand, was a whirlwind of energy, sorting through dresses and makeup like she was gearing up for a runway.

"You seriously think this one's too much?" Biana held up a glittering silver dress that practically screamed look at me.

Sophie laughed. "Biana, you know I'm more hoodie and sneakers. You'll be the one turning heads tonight."

Biana tossed the dress aside with a grin. "Maybe. But I'm making sure you look good too. No more hiding behind hoodies. Tonight's about fun—and looking fabulous."

Sophie shook her head but smiled. "Fine. Just don't go overboard on the makeup. You know I hate that stuff."

Biana winked. "Just a little. Besides, I know you've got a lot on your mind. Fitz is out of the picture now, so it's time to let go and have some fun."

Sophie's smile faltered for a second, but she nodded. "Yeah... things with Fitz ended. Still getting used to that."

Biana pulled Sophie into a quick hug. "That's why tonight's important. Party hard, forget the drama. We've got this—best friends since forever."

As the music from the neighbors' pre-party downstairs started to seep through the walls, Sophie felt a flicker of excitement. Maybe tonight wouldn't be so bad after all.

Biana bounced around the room like a sparkler, holding up makeup brushes and palettes. "Come on, Sophie. Just a little glow. You'll thank me later."

Sophie pulled a face but let Biana guide her to the mirror. "Fine, but only because you're my professional."

Biana's hands moved expertly, brushing a soft shimmer across Sophie's cheekbones and a hint of gloss on her lips. "See? Not so bad. You look like you're about to take on the world."

Sophie caught her reflection and blinked. "Okay, okay, maybe it's... nice."

"Nice doesn't cut it. You're stunning." Biana grinned, tossing a sparkly clutch onto the bed. "And now the hardest part—picking the right shoes for Miss Hoodie."

Sophie laughed, grabbing her trusty sneakers. "These it is. Sorry, not trading in my sneakers anytime soon."

"Fine, but the jacket has to be cute." Biana grabbed a cropped leather jacket and held it out like a prize. "Leather and hoodies? Instant cool."

Sophie hesitated, then slipped it on. "Okay, I'll admit—this isn't terrible."

"Victory!" Biana pumped her fist. "Alright, let's hit the party. No backing out."

Sophie smiled as they headed out, their different styles and worlds blending perfectly—a team ready to take on whatever the night threw at them.

                                                                                   ────୨ৎ────

The party buzzed around them as Fitz weaved through the crowd toward Sophie and Biana.

"Hey, Biana," Fitz called with a grin, slipping an arm around her shoulder. "And hi, Sophie."

Biana smiled back, already noticing the subtle shift in the room.

Fitz glanced over his shoulder and nodded toward a guy leaning against the wall, cool and composed.

"Biana, you remember Keefe, right?"

Biana's eyes flickered briefly, a mix of surprise and something else she quickly masked. "Yeah, of course."

Fitz turned to Keefe. "Keefe, this is Sophie—or 'Sophie' as Biana calls her."

Keefe stepped forward, his gaze locking with Sophie's for a split second. His eyes widened slightly, almost glassy with surprise, but he quickly masked it with a small, polite smile.

"Hey, Sophie. Nice to meet you."

Sophie felt her heart skip, but she returned the smile, trying to keep it casual.

Biana caught the exchange and gave Sophie a knowing look, but the music and chatter pulled them apart before anything else could be said.

Fitz gently tugged Sophie aside into the quieter hallway, away from the noise and flashing lights.

"Can we talk, please?" he asked, voice low but serious.

Sophie nodded, bracing herself.

Fitz took a deep breath. "I've been thinking... maybe we could try again. Give us another shot."

Sophie looked at him steadily, her heart pounding but her resolve firm. "Fitz, I don't think that's a good idea."

He blinked, searching her face. "Why not? What changed?"

She took a steadying breath. "Because when we were together, I felt like I was losing myself. Like I had to be someone I wasn't — to fit into your world. And I'm done with that."

Fitz's shoulders sagged a little, but he nodded slowly. "I get it. I didn't want to lose you, but maybe I didn't see how much I was holding you back."

Sophie gave a small, sad smile. "I care about you, Fitz. I really do. But sometimes love isn't enough if you're not happy being you."

Fitz looked at her for a moment longer, then offered a soft, understanding smile. "Okay. I want you to be happy, no matter what."

Sophie felt a weight lift off her chest. "Thanks for understanding."

They stood there in silence for a moment — two people who cared deeply but knew that some things couldn't be undone.

But Fitz's hope quickly turned to frustration. Without warning, he stepped closer, pushing her gently but firmly against the wall.

"Maybe this will remind you," he said, his voice low as he leaned in.

Sophie froze. "Fitz, no."

He ignored her, trying to kiss her again, desperate for some sign she still cared.

Panic rose as she pushed him away. "Stop! This isn't okay."

His eyes searched hers, clouded with insecurity. But Sophie had already made her decision.

"I'm done. Please don't do this."

She slipped away, leaving Fitz alone with his regrets.

Short chapter sorry guysss. Loving the story so far? I'm working super hard to keep it exciting and fresh just for you. Thanks a million for reading—can't wait to share more! 

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