You walked alongside Ruby, the sunlight filtering through the trees and casting dappled shadows on the path. Ruby's laughter filled the air, a sound that always made your heart race. You had been friends for as long as you could remember, and every moment you spent with Ruby was both a joy and a silent torture.

“Please, I don't like Josh. He’s a jerk.” Ruby said, her lips curling into a smile that lit up her entire face. She looked at you, who was struggling to keep a fake smile.

You didn't know what to say. The words seemed to get stuck in your throat. How could you tell Ruby what you really felt? That you had always thought Ruby was wonderful, smart, and incredibly pretty? That you were in love with her, but you were terrified to admit it, especially when Ruby might be interested in someone else?

Uncertainty gnawed at you, a constant reminder of what you couldn't have. Your heart ached with a longing you could never express, and every smile from Ruby felt like a bittersweet reminder of the unspoken words between you.

You looked at Ruby, eyes shining, and felt the pang of pain.

It hurts to be so close to someone you love without being able to tell them.