Spotting and cramps since 10dpo

Why is it that as soon as you start trying again it’s like your body decides to play tricks on you?!? I am always regular 28day cycle. This month I’ve had cramps on and off over a week before my period is due. Last 2 days I’ve had spotting (brownish discharge) ... still not due until Friday. This never happens and I know the probability is it’s just weird early period I can’t help but cling on to hope it’s pregnancy signs 😩 took 2 cheap tests and both negative (faint lines but think they are evap as it was after the 4mins). 1 test didn’t work at all which is making me doubt their reliability but again probably just giving myself false hope. Never had this with previous pregnancies (1 m/c). Can anyone else relate??