He sabotaged my chances with a girl. - Vikram

Vikram and Issac were part of a university's bowling team. They both helped Ella, their teammate, when she was going through difficult times.

Vikram had quiet affections for Ella. He hoped that over time, as they spent more time together, she might develop romantic feelings for him too.

One day, he learned that Issac was romantically interested in Ella as well.

During one of their conversations, Vikram found an opportune moment. "You know, Ella gave me this jigsaw puzzle she put together personally," he said, his voice warm with appreciation. "And this plush toy too. I'm really touched by her thoughtfulness and generosity."

Issac felt something sink inside him. A personalised jigsaw puzzle? That seemed significant. Meaningful.

What Vikram didn't mention was that the jigsaw puzzle came from Ella's house-moving garage sale. Buyers could donate whatever they wished, with proceeds going to charity. Ella hadn't assembled it specially for him. She had been clearing out her belongings.

He also didn't mention that many people received the same plush toy. Ella had purchased that design in bulk as part of a thanksgiving activity for everyone who had supported the team.

But Issac didn't know any of this. With the incomplete framing of what had transpired, he drew his own conclusion: Ella and Vikram clearly had mutual feelings.

Issac stopped his pursuit of Ella. Why compete when she had already made her choice?

Months later, when the truth came out in casual conversation, Issac realised what had happened. By then, Ella had started seeing someone else entirely.