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How did things change so much since last summer?
Why does it feel so much harder than before?
I don’t want to lose him, but I can’t do this anymore.
She fought back tears as she opened the bathroom door and startled at the sight of her mother, leaning against the wall across from the door.
“Mom, what are you doing in here?”
“Franky told me you weren’t feeling well. He was worried about you.”
Her chin began to quiver, and the tears fell.
“Skylar.” Mom took hold of her, wrapping her up in love, sheltering her from the world. “Please talk to me.”
“I love him, Mom,” she whimpered as the tears spilled over.
“Who? Franky?”
Skylar nodded into Mom’s neck.
“Oh, sweetheart.” Mom gently rubbed up and down her back. “I’ve suspected as much for a while now. I’m so sorry. It must be hard seeing him with someone else.”
“It’s awful.” She pulled back and wiped her face, taking in a deep breath. “But I’ve decided that it’s over. I’m done being in love with him.”
Mom looked skeptical. “I’m not sure you can turn it off like that, sweetie. That’s not how love works.”
“But I can’t go on this way. I can’t go on pretending with him, acting like we’re only friends when I want so much more. I have to cut ties, at least for a while, for my own wellbeing.”
“Have you told him that?” Mom asked.
Skylar shook her head. “I’m afraid to. What if he doesn’t understand? What if I lose him forever?”
“Don’t you think suddenly shutting him out of your life will do more damage than telling him the truth?”
Skylar sniffled.
“You two have a special friendship, and if it’s as strong as I think it is, nothing will break it. But I think it’s a chance you’re going to have to take.”
Their friendship was special, and they had been through a lot together. Still, she was hesitant.
“I don’t know if I can do it. Because what I want more than anything is the best-case scenario, but I know I’m not going to get it.”
“How do you know?”
“Because Franky’s in love with Ivy. He told me as much tonight.”
“That may be. And if he doesn’t feel the same way you do, at least you’ll know for sure, and maybe it will help you move on from your feelings faster.”
Skylar took in a shaky breath. “I’ll think about it.”
Mom hugged her again. “I love you, and I’m sorry you’re hurting. I wish I could make it all better for you.”
“I know, Mom. I love you too.”
Mom let go. “Are you coming back to the reception?”
Skylar shook her head. “I need some time to myself. But you go ahead.”