As months passed, Adrian slowly became the center of Maya's life. He called her every morning and texted every night. At first, it felt comforting.
Then one evening, everything changed.
Maya was getting ready to meet her best friend Lena.
"Where are you going?" Adrian asked casually.
"Dinner with Lena," Maya replied.
Adrian watched her quietly.
"Do you really need to see her tonight?"
"She's my best friend."
Adrian smiled, but his eyes were cold.
"I just think relationships need priorities."
Maya hesitated.
"So you don't want me to go?"
"I'm saying you should choose what matters more."
After a long silence…
Maya cancelled the dinner.
And Adrian's first rule was born.