When we just entered college, Eric was worried that I would be bullied by others, so he took classes with me when he was free and sent me downstairs to my dormitory every day. Gradually, there were some rumors.

One day, when we were having dinner together, his roommate asked him, "Are you in a relationship? Have you had sex?"

I was stunned, and before I could answer, I saw Eric's face turn ugly. He showed a disgusted expression and said, "Don't think of us in that disgusting relationship. Joyce and I are best friends."

Suddenly, everyone looked at me. Ignoring their disbelief and surprise, I calmly had my meal, thinking, "Why are you looking at me? Don't you know that we are just friends?"

Well, maybe they indeed didn't know that.

One day, when Eric wanted to hold my hand in the mall, I finally couldn't help but protest.

"Don't you think this is inappropriate?" I tried to make my voice serious.

Eric was wearing the same style T-shirt as me but in a different color. With an innocent expression, he asked me, "What's wrong? There are so many people, and we will get separated if we don't hold hands."

Damn! What he said made sense, and I didn't know how to refute it.

He reached out and patted my head, asking me to wait for him, "I'm going to get popcorn and Coke."

I watched him leave, feeling satisfied. If I could keep it a secret forever...

"Joyce?" My thoughts were interrupted by a clear female voice.

It was Julie White, the school beauty.

She was wearing a light-colored dress and high heels, looking pure.

I met her a few times in college because of Eric, but I didn't expect to meet her here.

I said politely, "What a coincidence!"

Julie showed a charming smile. "No, I came here on purpose."

2

Julie took out her cell phone and shook it. I saw Eric’s Facebook.

Eric: [I haven’t watched a movie in a long time.]

He posted a photo of him and me holding hands, as well as the location of the mall.

Julie said with sarcasm, "Joyce, you are so shameless. You are Eric's friend but enjoy the treatment of his lover."

I asked, "So what? What are you here for?"

Julie raised her head proudly. "Eric is a good man and many girls like him. You know, we have kept in touch after graduation, and he often talks to me about things that girls like. It's easy for a girl to pursue a boy. If I have a try, he will like me."