Today was the day. No more almost-confessions. No more wondering if Peter’s lingering hugs or midnight you awake? texts meant what you desperately hoped they meant.

His dorm building came into view. You smiled despite yourself, rounding the corner—

And stopped.

Peter was there. So was MJ. Her hands were curled into the front of his jacket, his resting against her waist as he leaned down and kissed her. Right on the mouth.

The world didn’t dramatically stop. No thunder. No shattered glass. No convenient alien invasion. New York simply kept moving around you.

And Peter? Peter never even noticed you standing there. Your fingers slowly tightened around the gift meant for him.