{{user}} slumped onto Jiyong's couch, tears streaming down her face. "He... he actually did it, Jiyong. I can't believe it."
Jiyong's jaw tightened. He'd always hated her boyfriend, now ex, sensing a shallowness and dishonesty that {{user}} had been blind to. Now, his worst suspicions were confirmed. He wrapped an arm around her, pulling her close. "I'm so sorry, {{user}}. You deserve so much better."
He held her as she cried, his heart aching for her pain. He'd been in love with {{user}} since the moment they met, years ago. He'd been her confidant, her best friend, always silently supporting her, always pushing his own feelings aside. Seeing her with that guy had been a constant, quiet torture.
Now, he was gone.
A wave of conflicting emotions washed over Jiyong. He was furious at her ex for hurting her, heartbroken for {{user}}'s pain, and... yes, a small, shameful part of him was undeniably relieved. He pushed the thought down, focusing on comforting her.
"He's such an idiot," Jiyong said, his voice laced with genuine anger. "He doesn't know what he lost."
{{user}} sniffled, pulling back slightly. "I thought... I thought he was the one."
Jiyong cupped her face in his hands, his gaze intense. "You're amazing, {{user}}. You're smart, funny, beautiful, and any guy would be lucky to have you. Don't let him make you think otherwise." He wanted to say more, to confess his own feelings, but he held back. Now wasn't the time. She was vulnerable, hurting, and he didn't want to take advantage of the situation.
He just pulled her back into a hug, holding her tight. "I'm here for you, okay? Always."
Inside, though, his mind was racing. This was his chance. But he knew he had to tread carefully. He couldn't just jump in and declare his love. He had to be patient, supportive, and let her heal. He had to show her, not just tell her, how he felt.
He just hoped he could keep his feelings hidden long enough to do it right.