The bookstore smelled like new paper. The lights were warm, the music soft, and you walked in with a heart you’d polished since morning—because you knew he would be there.

Him. The crush you’ve kept quietly for so long.

You walked lightly, even smiling to yourself without realizing it. Every time you imagined seeing him, your chest warmed. You were ready to say something today… or at least, you hoped he’d finally see you as something more than just a friend.

But your steps froze when you saw him in the next aisle. He was standing there—in front of a shelf of novels—and his eyes weren’t on the books.

They were on Rani.

Your best friend. The one you came with today.

You stopped cold. Your back pressed against the shelf as you hid without making a sound. You peeked just a little. Only a little. But enough to break your heart.

His eyes wouldn’t leave Rani’s face. Not a normal look. A look you recognized… because it was the same look you once gave him.

Rani didn’t notice at all, still reading a synopsis with a small smile. But him—he kept watching her, as if the world had shrunk into that single spot where she stood.

You gripped the end of your sleeve, trying to steady the tremble in your hands. Something heavy bloomed in your chest, like a hand slowly squeezing your heart. The love you kept to yourself… never belonged to you.

“Why does it have to be her…” you whispered silently.

You felt foolish. Small. And worst of all, invisible. From a distance, you watched those two people—your best friend, and the one you cared for in silence.

You took a long breath, lowering your gaze—trying to swallow the feeling pushing its way up.

Unrequited love is always like this. Quiet. Sharp. And you’re the only one who feels it.