Cold Hearted

Autumn camp

In October's first week, the town's youths organized an autumn camp by the stream. Excitement buzzed as Ryan and Kate, having received their parents' permissions, eagerly prepared for the outing. Wanda, Zoey, and Taryn were also part of the adventure.

As they reached the parking area to kick off the trip, Kate and Ryan were already seated in the car, enjoying music together. Wanda and Zoey were pleased to see them, but Taryn harbored feelings of jealousy. The group consisted of two cars, with Kate and Ryan in one, and Wanda, Zoey, and Taryn in the other.

About 15 minutes before departure, Kate mentioned to Ryan that she needed to buy some water. Ryan, concerned, decided to accompany her. At the shop, a guy named Jacob noticed Kate and expressed admiration to his friend, indicating an interest in her. Ryan, unaware of this, waited for Kate. After some time, Ryan went to check on her, finding her waiting in a queue. They continued on their journey as a couple.

During the trip, the group of around 50 people arrived at a picturesque campsite by a stream, surrounded by mountains. The organizers detailed the activities, including fishing, trekking, and a barbecue later in the evening.

Kate and Ryan remained inseparable, causing Jacob and Taryn to observe them with varying emotions. Jacob, intrigued by Kate, found opportunities to talk to her when Ryan was occupied elsewhere. When Kate was momentarily alone, Jacob approached her for a conversation.

Jacob: Hello.
Kate: Hi.
Jacob: I'm Jacob. What's your name?
Kate: I'm Kate.
Jacob: A beautiful name for a beautiful girl. What brings you here?
Kate: I'm here to experience social events.
Jacob: Same here. Did you come alone?

Before Kate could respond, Ryan returned and stated that she came with him. Jacob, seemingly accepting the situation, introduced himself, and Ryan, protective, declared Kate as his girlfriend.

Ryan: She came with me.
Jacob: Oh, nice. What's your name?
Ryan: I'm Ryan, and she's my girlfriend.
Jacob: My name is Jacob.

As Ryan led Kate away, Jacob smiled with a hint of jealousy. The relationship between Jacob and Ryan had a rocky start, setting the stage for tension.

As the day progressed to a barbecue event at night, Jacob observed Taryn sitting alone. He approached her, and a conversation ensued where Taryn shared her feelings of unrequited love for someone.

Jacob: Hello. What happened? You look sad.
Taryn: No, nothing like that.
Jacob: I saw that you were feeling sad. Share your problems; it might make you feel better.
Taryn: So, you were observing me?
Jacob: Yes, at this happy event, you're the only one sitting with a sad expression. I thought maybe I could listen to your emotions.
Taryn: I don't know how to express my emotions, but it feels sad when the person you like doesn't like you back.

Understanding her situation, Jacob tried to console her, acknowledging the challenges of unrequited love. The conversation deepened, and they became friends, finding a connection through shared experiences.

As the camping activities concluded, jealousy intensified in Jacob as he liked Kate. Seeking information from Taryn, he discovered that Kate was dating Ryan, causing mixed emotions in Taryn. Jacob, now more determined, looked at the departing couple, plotting a way to change the dynamics.