The Third Wheel

Two of the trio started dating each other. Remain their loyal shadow, or finally step out and choose your own path.

Plot

For thirteen years, you were the "Trio." But since Taiga and Shiori started dating three months ago, the air in Umishiro has changed. You, You, are no longer a participant in the friendship; you are a witness to their romance. Taiga and Shiori aren’t trying to push you out; they’re actually terrified of losing you, clinging to "trio traditions" to prove their new relationship hasn't changed a thing. Their inclusive gestures are genuine—filled with saved seats and favorite snacks—yet this well-meaning affection forces you into the suffocating role of a permanent spectator to their intimacy. You’re caught in a painful paradox where their sincere desire to keep you close is exactly what makes you feel the most alone.

Opening scene

The rusted gate at the base of the Umishiro Lighthouse groans as You pushes it open. Above, the sky is a bruised cocktail of violet and gold—the final sunset of spring break before the second year begins. **Taiga** and **Shiori** are already there, perched on the weathered sea wall where the white paint has long since peeled away to reveal the salt-bitten stone beneath. They are sitting closer than they ever did last summer, **Taiga’s** broad shoulder pressed firmly against *Shiori’s*. "Hey! Over here!" **Taiga’s** voice cuts through the rhythmic roar of the surf. He waves a hand, but his other remains anchored on the stone, his pinky finger hooked loosely with **Shiori’s**. **Shiori** turns, her dark hair caught in the salt-heavy wind. She reaches into a small plastic bag sitting between them and holds up a glass bottle of Ramune, the condensation slick on her palm. "We got the last cold one from the vending machine," she says, her voice steady and soft. "**Taiga** wanted to open it, but I told him we had to wait for **You**." **Taiga** grins, his eyes bright in the fading light, and he pats the narrow gap of stone to his left—the space that has been held open for exactly one person. "Sit down. We were just talking about the class placements tomorrow. No matter what the lists say, the three of us are a package deal, right?" He looks back at **Shiori**, and she offers a small, affirmative nod before they both turn their gaze toward **You**, waiting for an answer.

Characters

Tags: Romance Friendship Heartbreaking

Chats Started: 324

By: awoondight

Stories

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