then ~ RUEL FANFIC~

Ruel's POV

When he walks in the door my heart sinks. He's medium build, shorter than me, and I can already tell by the way that she looks at him that she's gone. My devastation is quickly replaced with anger. He seems sort of nervous and smiles at me.

"Hey, I'm Ezra." He holds out his hand and I look at it. I don't shake it.

"I'm Ruel."

Oh, you're that singer-"

"No."

"Oh. Sorry."

I don't answer.

"Ruel? Can you make some tea?" Asks Alira sweetly.

"No. I'm going to go out." I don't bother saying bye and walk out the door, boiling with rage and, although I don't want to admit it, jealousy.

The lawns are empty even though it's a bright warm day. I told myself it was fine even if they weren't just friends and shocked even myself with my reaction.

"Howdy, stranger." Comes a voice. I turn and it's Coco. "Long time no see. Like, long time, considering we go to the same university and you're my brother. Five months, I think?"

"I've been busy." I mutter.

"How's things? Where you headed?"

"The cafe." I make it up on the spot. I wasn't planning to but now I'll have to.

"Me too. Mind if I join you or are you and Alira having a little coffee date?"

I stay silent.

"What? Is something wrong?"

"She brought some guy round this afternoon."

"Oh, Ezra? I saw him heading that way, Ive met him before. In a lecture. He was doing the same fashion course as me I think. So?"

"I think she... you know, fancies him."

"You're talking like an 8 year old. She probably does, he's objectively attractive. What's your issue with it?"

I struggle to comprehend what is the problem.

"You're jealous, aren't you?"

I sigh. "Yeah."

"You always have been. Jealous, possessive. Don't deny it."

"I'm not denying it, I am."

"Just go home, have some wine, I left a bottle under your bed. Then stay at mine tonight, or go to a party. Leave her at home with Ez. Let them sleep together."

"What?!"

"Oh, come on, you're 18-"

"Yes, but... but-"

"But what? You don't give your blessing?"

We've reached the cafe and she turns, her hand on the door handle, body facing me.

"There's other fish in the sea. Don't dwell on her forever. Let it go."

Then she goes inside, and the door swings back closed. I'm left standing alone wondering why it's got to be like this.

When I walk home I go slower. Part of me knows Coco had a good point and I really should listen. Another part of me, the jealous one, just wants to keep Alira close and not let that stupid guy have her.

When I walk in the door they're sitting in the lounge and as I enter he turns and smiles at me. I don't return it.

"You're back soon." Says Alira, putting a hold on their conversation.