ZACH’S POV

He shrugged nonchalantly. “It’s not my fault she likes me better, Zach. Maybe if you weren’t so shy and actually made a move, you wouldn’t have these problems.”

I clenched my fists, trying to keep my anger in check. “You did it on purpose. You always do.”

Gabriel’s smile faded, and he stepped closer, his tone turning colder. “Listen, Zach, you’re always going to be second best. You might as well get used to it.”

I stared at him, feeling a mix of rage and helplessness. That was the moment I realized Gabriel wasn’t just being competitive—he was trying to overshadow me, to make sure I never felt...