The Odd Ones
A group of friends, each with a name that stood out like a whispered secret, each carrying a story both beautiful and heartbreaking.
December
I was always the good girl-the straight-A student, the responsible teacher, the model citizen. I did everything right, yet I never felt enough. My reflection was my greatest enemy, my weight a constant battle. Compliments meant nothing when I couldn't believe them myself.
Then I met Rider.
He was my coach, a force of nature wrapped in quiet confidence. His encouragement wasn't just about the gym-it seeped into my bones, into the way I saw myself. He made me feel like I was more than just my insecurities. And then... he made me feel loved.
But love came with secrets.
Ours had to stay hidden for the sake of his job-or so he said. I accepted it, held onto the stolen moments, the whispered promises. Until one night, I overheard him.
And my world crumbled.
Sunshine doesn't mean I don't feel the storm."
June
People say I light up rooms. That I'm all sunshine and softness, with a laugh that sticks and eyes that still believe in happy endings.
And maybe I was that girl once.
I've spent six years loving a man who made me feel safe and seen. Aaron was everything-steady, strong, my partner in building dreams. He helped me turn my dance studio into something real. He proposed with shaking hands and a tear in his eye. And I said yes with every piece of my heart.
But three weeks before our wedding, he told me he needed to meet up with his high school sweetheart.
I said yes. I trusted him.
Then he came home and told me we had to postpone the wedding.
He didn't cheat. He didn't leave. He was just... confused. And that broke me more than anything else could.
So I canceled the wedding. I packed away the dress, the flowers, the future I'd memorized.
And now? Now I have to figure out who I am without him.
I don't know where this story ends.
All I know is-I loved him with everything I had.
And I won't beg to be chosen twice.