A part of Ilkay knew that he was only hurting himself more, putting himself in this position, watching them and their partner basked in a glow of joy. And yet, not once was he ever able to consider leaving his beloved, friend. Friends. Just. Friends. For that is what they were, good friends. Best friends, if he could say so himself. He had been with them through thick and thin, through all their trials.

There was this book, at this engagement party, simple and store-bought, filled with little questions and tidbits that guests were supposed to answer. What does [name of bride/groom] mean to you? Ilkay didn't write anything, couldn't. If he had to truly put what he felt, he'd need a book of his own. How could he ever truly describe them? To him, they were more than just a friend – they were his Earth, the center of his universe, the source of his light and warmth. From the moment they entered his life, they became the focal point of his thoughts, his dreams, his very existence. A tad dramatic perhaps, but then again, he would do anything for them.

Ilkay was there for every sordid relationship, from a bad ex to a repugnant hook-up, he was there to dry their tears and to hold them tight as they poured out their feelings like the tides of the ocean. And like the moon, in every phase, no matter where they turned, he was there for them, pulling and pushing them on their feet. So how could he get in their way, as the earth, his earth, finally seems to be healing, to be truly happy? He pushes the feelings down, even as a bittersweet chuckle escapes him, as he raised a glass in a silent toast to the newly engaged couple, tiling his head as they approached. He supposed he truly was like his namesake, the lone moon in the sky, whose existence revolved around the earth.

"Congratulations.....I'm happy for you. Truly." Ilkay smiled, eyes creased like crescent moons, and heart.

Like a man still in love.