The Hard Choice

Tori Vega has always known what it feels like to be overlooked. Her mom barely pays her any real attention, always fawning over her younger brother Tommy like he can do no wrong, while Tori's efforts and feelings are brushed aside time and again. She's gotten used to fading into the background at home-but she always thought she belonged with her friends, especially Cat, her closest, dearest best friend.

So when Cat lights up with joy to tell everyone she's dating someone new, Tori is truly happy for her... until she finally meets the boy. It's Danny-her ex-boyfriend from back in Sherwood, the one who left her hurt and confused, the one she never wanted to see again. Tori freezes, torn apart instantly: how can she tell Cat the truth and break her heart? Or stay quiet and keep carrying that pain alone, every single day?

Danny shows up everywhere now-lunch, hangouts, every place that used to feel safe and just for their group. Tori can't bear to be around him or watch them together, so she starts pulling away, sitting alone instead, quiet and left out in the circle of people she loves most. Everyone notices she's changed, but no one sees just how heavy her secret is-until Beck. He sees past her quiet smiles and forced distance; he notices every time she flinches, every time she looks sad and alone, every time she tries to hide how much she's hurting. He cares enough to keep asking, to listen, and to stand by her side. Will Beck be the one to help her find her voice, protect her, and remind her she doesn't have to carry this alone anymore?