The Moon Shines when the Sun Isn't Around

34

Oreo's Dilemma

Oreo leaned against the wall of the school hallway, her heart racing as she scrolled through her phone, searching for Daron's texts. Ever since he'd come into the picture, her life had taken a confusing turn. Daron was charming, undeniably handsome, and the attention he lavished on her had sent her into a whirlwind of excitement. But deep down, something felt off.

Her thoughts were interrupted when she spotted Daron across the hall, chatting with a group of friends. He was animated, his laughter ringing out, and for a moment, Oreo felt a flutter of excitement. Yet, as she watched him, she also felt a twinge of anxiety. There was something about the way he looked at her—like she was a puzzle he wanted to solve but only for his own amusement.

"Oreo!" A familiar voice pulled her from her thoughts. It was King, striding toward her with his usual confidence. He wore a simple black T-shirt and jeans, but the way he carried himself made him stand out. King had always been her rock, the friend who knew how to make her laugh even on the worst days. But lately, something had shifted between them, and she wasn't sure why.

"Hey, King," she replied, forcing a smile as she tucked her phone away.

He glanced over his shoulder at Daron, who was still joking around with his friends. "What's up with that guy?" King asked, his tone casual but laced with concern. "He seems...a little too into you."

Oreo rolled her eyes, trying to downplay the situation. "He's just being friendly, you know? It's nothing serious."

"Friendly?" King raised an eyebrow. "He's been practically glued to your side since he showed up. You sure you're okay with that?"

Oreo felt a rush of defensiveness. "I can handle myself, King. I'm not a little kid anymore."

"I know you can," he replied, his voice softening. "But you deserve someone who respects you, not just some guy who thinks he can flaunt his charm and expect you to swoon."

Before she could respond, Daron approached them with a swagger that made Oreo's stomach churn. "Hey, beautiful," he said, a grin spreading across his face as he leaned against the wall beside her. "What's up?"

"Just hanging out," she replied, trying to keep her tone light.

"I was thinking we should grab lunch together later. Just the two of us," Daron suggested, his eyes lingering on her in a way that made her uncomfortable.

Oreo felt her heart race, but not from excitement. "Uh, I don't know about that..."

"Come on, it'll be fun!" Daron persisted, flashing a smile that made her stomach knot.

"Maybe I'll join," King interjected, crossing his arms and stepping a little closer to Oreo.

Daron shot him a dismissive look. "Who invited you, man? This is between me and Oreo."

"Actually, it's not just between you two," King said, his voice low and steady. "Oreo is my friend, and I don't want her to get involved with someone who doesn't respect her."

Oreo's heart swelled at King's words, but Daron laughed, brushing off the tension. "You think I don't respect her? I'm just showing her a good time. Relax, dude."

"Good times don't involve making someone uncomfortable," King replied sharply, his gaze unwavering.

Oreo felt torn. She wanted to tell Daron off, but she also didn't want to make a scene. "Guys, let's just chill," she said, trying to diffuse the situation.

Daron smirked, leaning closer to Oreo. "Don't worry about him, Oreo. I just want to have some fun. You're way too cute to pass up on."

Oreo recoiled slightly, feeling the heat rise in her cheeks. "I really think I should go," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.