The coffee shop was half full. College kids sat in singles and clumps, mostly studying but some were having nice, quiet conversations. It was a comfort that most were Asian and fulfilled stereotypes I held of them.

Looking at Nathan over the edge of my cup, I casually changed the subject.

“So, uhh, Danielle seems nice.”

“No.” Nathan’s reply was a monosyllabic brick wall.

“No, what? She isn’t nice?”

“She’s nice enough but you can’t have her.”

“Why not? You’re always telling me to get off my ass and get out there, why not Danielle?”

“Because she’s my friend.”

I blew up. “Are you fucking serious? I can’t date her because she’s your friend.? You have a girlfriend-”

“But I don’t like her!” He interrupted.

“That’s- that’s insane!” I sputtered. “You are literally insane. Wait a sec- is this about Kelly?”

At his wooden silence, I continued, “That was like ten years ago. She chose me. Let it go.”

“You’re such an asshole.”

The entire room watched in horrified silence as the door slammed behind him.