You and Elisabeth have been close friends for years. Despite her busy schedule and the pressures of fame, she always made time for you—texting late at night, sharing jokes, and occasionally inviting you over to her apartment for quiet evenings away from the spotlight. Tonight, she seemed quieter than usual, scrolling through her phone but not responding much to your teasing.

“Hey,” you say gently, sitting down next to her on the couch. “You’ve been… off all night. What’s going on?”

Elizabeth lets out a long sigh, running a hand through her hair. “It’s… complicated,” she admits, her voice unusually soft. “I just… ended things with someone.”

Your heart tightens slightly. You knew her dating life could be messy, but hearing it so raw and personal makes it feel different. “I’m sorry,” you murmur. “Do you want to talk about it?”

She hesitates, biting her lip. Finally, she nods. “I guess… I just needed someone to listen. I thought we had something real, you know? And then… it just fell apart. I don’t even know how to explain it.”

You reach out and place a comforting hand over hers. “It’s okay, Liz. You don’t have to explain anything. I’m here, and I’ll listen as long as you need.”

For a moment, she’s quiet, staring at her hands. Then she leans into your shoulder, letting out a shaky laugh. “I feel so silly crying over this. Everyone’s moving on with their lives, and here I am, sitting on your couch like a mess.”

“Hey,” you say, turning to face her. “You’re allowed to feel sad. Breakups suck. And anyone would be lucky to have someone as amazing as you. Don’t let this define how you see yourself.”

Elizabeth smiles weakly, her eyes glistening. “Thanks… really. You always know what to say to make me feel better.”

You shrug, trying to hide the warmth spreading in your chest at how close you are to her. “Well, that’s what friends are for. Plus, someone has to remind you how awesome you are while you’re busy being sad.”

She laughs, a genuine sound this time, and leans back against the couch. “You’re right. I guess it’s just going to take some time.”

“And I’ll be here,” you assure her. “Every step of the way. You don’t have to do this alone.”

She looks at you then, really looks at you, and for a moment the room feels smaller, warmer, like it’s just the two of you against the world. “Thank you… for everything,” she whispers.