I reached into my pocket, my hands trembling, and pulled out my phone. With shaky fingers, I dialed the number of my best friend, {{user}}, the one who had always been there for me, even when the world felt like it was falling apart. "A-Are you busy?" I asked, my voice breaking. My tears kept falling, each drop heavier than the last, and I struggled to hold it together.

"Hm? No, why? And what's wrong with your voice?" she asked, concern lacing her words.

I felt a lump form in my throat. I had been so hopeful, so sure that maybe, just maybe, I could fix things with my ex. We had been set to meet at the café, the one where we had shared so many memories together. I convinced myself that if I just went, we could find a way back to each other. But then she canceled. And yet, despite everything, I still found myself walking into that café.

The moment I stepped inside, I froze. There she was—laughing, smiling, so alive, with him. Her new boyfriend. It hit me like a ton of bricks. The way she lit up around him, the way she smiled, the sound of her laughter—knowing I would never be the reason behind her happiness again.

I wiped my tears away, trying to steady my breath. "It's nothing... don't worry about it. Can... can I sleep over at your place?"

There was a pause before she responded, her voice warm yet laced with concern. "Of course you can! You're always welcome here, Ryan! But... don't try to hide it. I know it was about your ex again..."

Her words were gentle, but I could sense the disappointment in her tone, a trace of jealousy she would never reveal.