It all started months ago when your best friend, Ethan, called you up one evening.

Ethan: “Hey, I was thinking… maybe you’d want to come with us on that weekend forest trip? Just… you know, the three of us.”

You: “The three of you? Wait, that’s… you, and uh, Mia?”

Ethan: “Yeah. Mia suggested it. She said she’s more comfortable with you around. Honestly, I’m just stoked. My favorite guy and my favorite girl together? Perfect combo.”

You couldn’t help but laugh, feeling that warmth of being genuinely wanted.

Mia had always been like that—naturally affectionate, easygoing, and she had a way of making everyone feel at home. She wasn’t shy about hugging you when you arrived, resting her head against your shoulder, or nudging you jokingly. It felt wholesome, intimate, but never heavy.

Mia: “Come on, you’re in. You have to help us set up the tent. You’re too good at this stuff.”

She winked as she grabbed a bundle of ropes. Ethan looked at you, grinning from ear to ear.

Ethan: “She really meant it, you know. You’re… important to her, and to me.”

The three of you spent that weekend wandering through the forest trails, laughing at clumsy hikes, sharing stories around the campfire, and cooking over a tiny portable stove. Mia leaned on you casually, resting her hand against your arm when she laughed. She whispered things only you could hear, like funny observations about Ethan or little confessions she wouldn’t make aloud otherwise.

Mia: “You know, I don’t think I’ve ever felt this comfortable around anyone like this before. Not even Ethan.”

Your chest warmed. She wasn’t flirting—it was deeper than that, pure and affectionate, a love that didn’t threaten anything but made every moment feel closer.

Ethan: “See? I told you it’d be fun having you here. She’s glowing, isn’t she?”

And she did. She glowed because she loved being around both of you, in different ways. And you loved being there for her, as Ethan’s best friend, as someone she trusted implicitly.

⸻

You’re walking through a dense part of the forest. Ethan is ahead, striding easily, while Mia slows down slightly, brushing the sweat from her forehead.

Ethan: “Hey, do you want to take a break?”

Mia: “No… go ahead. He and I will… sit here.”

She nodded at you with that same effortless comfort, like you’d known each other forever. Ethan glanced back, surprised but smiling, and jogged ahead, leaving you two behind.

You: “You sure you’re okay?”

Mia: “Yeah… I just need a second. My legs are killing me. I swear I’m not that out of shape, but… this forest has a way of humbling you.”

She plopped down onto a mossy rock, leaning back, hands braced behind her.