LIVING

chapter 5

Tobi's eyes narrowed as he watched Efe walk away from AJ's door. A pang of jealousy shot through his chest, and he felt his heart racing. Why was Efe visiting AJ? And why did she look so happy leaving his apartment?

Tobi's mind started racing with worst-case scenarios. What if AJ started liking Efe? She was pretty, after all. And charming. And funny. Tobi's insecurities took over, and he felt a surge of possessiveness towards AJ.

Instead of asking AJ what Efe was doing there, Tobi decided to give him attitude. He walked up to AJ's door, his expression cold. "What's going on?" he asked gruffly.

AJ, sensing the change in Tobi's tone, raised an eyebrow. "Hey, what's wrong? Efe just stopped by to say hi."

Tobi's eyes flashed with jealousy. "Just to say hi? okay ,

AJ noticed the change in Tobi's voice and took a step back, surprised. "Tobi, what's going on? You're acting weird."

But Tobi just crossed his arms, his expression unyielding. "well...

AJ's eyes narrowed, confusion turning to frustration. "Tobi, Efe is just a friend. And even if she wasn't, I thought we trusted each other."

Tobi's jealousy had blinded him to reason, and he couldn't see the hurt in AJ's eyes. All he saw was the possibility of losing AJ to someone else.

As they made out on the couch, Tobi's mind kept wandering back to Efe's visit. He couldn't shake off the feeling of unease, even as AJ's lips moved against his.

AJ noticed the distraction and pulled back, concern etched on his face. "Hey, what's wrong? You're not into this?"

Tobi sighed, feeling guilty for his attitude. "I'm sorry, AJ. It's just...Efe came by your place today, and I don't know, it just felt weird."

AJ's expression softened. "Tobi, I told you, Efe is just a friend. There's nothing going on between us."

But Tobi's insecurities had taken hold. "I know, I know. It's just...I don't want to lose you, AJ. You're the only person I've ever...felt this way about."

AJ's eyes filled with understanding. "Tobi, you're not going to lose me. and I'm with you , not Efe. And even if I did have feelings for her, which I don't, I would never hurt you like that."

Tobi felt a pang of guilt for doubting AJ. He knew he was being irrational, but he couldn't help the fear that had taken root in his heart.

"I'm sorry, AJ. I trust you, I do. It's just...Efe is my best friend, but I feel like I'm losing her too. She's always been there for me, and now it feels like she's...I don't know, moving on or something."

. "Tobi, you're not losing anyone. Efe will always be your friend, and I'll always be here for you. We'll work through this together, okay?"Efe knocked on Tobi's door, her brow furrowed with concern. When Tobi opened it, she could see the strain in his eyes.

"Hey, man, can I come in?" she asked, her voice soft.

Tobi hesitated for a moment before stepping aside. Efe entered, taking in the familiar surroundings of Tobi's living room.

"Sit down," Tobi said, gesturing to the couch.

Efe sat, her eyes locked on Tobi's. "What's going on with you, Tobi? You've been acting strange lately. Distant. And we haven't hung out like we used to."

Tobi shrugged, avoiding her gaze. "I don't know what you're talking about."

Efe sighed. "Don't lie to me, Tobi. We've been friends for too long. I know something's bothering you. Is it AJ? Did something happen between you two?"