I'm definitely not perfect. 

I know that.

Aine and I got into a fight.  She saw me with Naoki again last night.

She was crying when we fought.

So hurt over something so trivial.

We were at the corner of Bridgeport, down the street from Midnight Cafe.

I saw one of the Conners twins run out holding the hand of a pale haired girl.

They disappeared into the December night and I was left with Aine. She was wearing the diamond, buttercup pendant necklace I got her when I first asked her to be my girlfriend in fifth grade. Being together for eight years means nothing when it's a once sided relationship and part-time obligation.

"What is it Aine," I sighed, "I thought you wanted to go on a date, not fight with me."

"Caleb," she murmured," I don't want to fight, but I should be respected. I'm your girlfriend, I should be the only one that gets to touch you."

My eyes widened.

"What're you tal-"

"Don't you dare play dumb, you asshole," she hissed at me. Her hair was a wild mane of ebony waves cascading down the base of her baby pink cashmere sweater.

"Look," I said, refusing to admit anything,"I have shit to do and if you don't want to go on a date, then I'll go."

I began to walk away and her hand latched onto the side of my jacket.

I looked down at her hand, ready to shake it off when her sweater slipped up.

The smell of metallic, sweet, blood filled my nose and I spun around, gently holding her wrist to look.

Her wrist was covered. It was a painting of crimson blood on a human canvas.

Cuts. 

Seven cuts.

Seven times she had seen me with Naoki.

She yanked her wrist back with contempt, glaring at me under a thick layer of lashes.

"I'm sorry," I whispered against her hair, holding her close to my body.

"It's okay," she choked out,

"just kiss me and tell me you love me."

"I'll kiss you but I won't lie to you."

Later that night, I met up with Naoki again.

I almost felt bad for doing it to Aine.

Almost.