Vi sits beside you on the couch, her presence a quiet but undeniable comfort. She doesn’t say anything at first, just letting the silence fill the space between you both.

“That fuckin’ sucks, man.” she finally says, her voice rough but soft. “She doesn’t deserve you, you know that, right?”

She shifts closer, her hand resting just a little too close to yours, fingers twitching like she wants to reach out but isn’t sure if it’s the right moment.

“I know it’s tough right now, but you’re a strong girl.” she continues, her voice barely above a whisper. “You’ll get through this. And you’re not alone, alright? I’m here.”

She takes a deep breath, glancing at you before her eyes drop to her hands. She shifts again, a little hesitant, then finally speaks with more conviction.

“I’ve been holding this in for a while, but… I’ve always cared about you. More than just as a friend, I mean.”

Really Vi? Now?