“Of course, my darling. I remember how you tried. I just… didn’t pay attention. Amyra isn’t just my best friend, she’s family.” I pause, her face flashing in my mind.
“She’s been a constant presence since childhood. Staying apart from her felt like a mini heartbreak. This is our first time going silent on each other, and I didn’t cope well. I’m sorry for failing your expectations. I’ll try to be more present for you.” I explain gently. I know things like this can feel sensitive.
But I want to do my best for her.
“I understand your bond with my sister. I’m only upset that I couldn’t pull you out of your dull mood despite being your girlfriend.”
Her worry is evident, and guilt pricks my chest. “I’m the one at fault, Aditi. Don’t overthink this. We’ll be fine.”
“Alright, Reyansh… but I personally think Amyra Di shouldn’t have shut you out without a partic—”
“She must have a strong reason, Aditi. I’ll call you later. She should be here anytime.”
I end the call after her soft “okay,” and I’m surprised at how quickly I defended Amyra without even letting Aditi finish her sentence.
God, why am I acting like this?
Just then, the library door creaks, and my spirit lifts instantly. I rush toward the entrance, and there I see Amyra walking inside. A broad, emotional smile stretches across my lips. After days of not seeing her, I can’t stop myself. I hurry forward and immediately pull her into my arms.
“Rey…” Her whisper sends a wave of relief crashing through me. I tighten my arms around her shoulders as one of her hands wraps around my torso, tapping my back lightly. For a full minute, I just breathe her in, soaking in the serenity her presence brings. When we pull away, we’re both smiling. But my smile fades the moment I take a proper look at her. The dullness in her eyes, the withered expression, the exhaustion; even her usual glow is gone. Concern stabs through my chest.
“Ames… what have you done to yourself? You look sick. Where’s your spark?” I lift my hand to touch her face, but she steps back. My hand freezes mid-air before I slowly retreat.
Something is wrong.
“First of all,” she begins softly, “I’m sorry for ghosting you for the last ten days, Rey. I know it was wrong to shut you out without a proper reason. I was dealing with my own problems and neededsolitude. But everything is normal now, so I wanted to clear things between us. I hope you understand and forgive me.” Her explanation knocks the breath out of me. This doesn’t sound like Amyra. It feels distant, unfamiliar, and oddly formal. She always ran to me when something bothered her. Why did she hide this time? Why didn’t she trust me with it even now?
It’s hard to digest.What changed between us?
“Is this real or am I imagining it?” I whisper, my voice unsteady. “You’re hiding something from me, Ames. I can feel it. What happened between us? Aren’t we each other’s refuge?” A hollow ache sits heavy in my chest. I hate admitting it, but I feel heartbroken… like I’m losing my best friend.
“Oh, Rey, you’re overreacting.” She sighs. “Everyone has things they don’t want to share, not even with their closest allies. Please understand that. And if I hurt you, I’ll wait until you forgive me. I’m sorry again.” She turns to leave, but I react fast, grabbing her wrist and spinning her back toward me.
“No.” The word escapes like a plea. A few days without her felt like torture, robbing me of my sanity. I can’t let her walk away just because I expect more from her. Yes, she might have things she can’t say yet, but that doesn’t mean I’ll let our friendship crumble.
She’s here. That’s enough for now. Maybe one day, she’ll tell me what she’s hiding.
“Please don’t leave, Ames. There’s nothing to forgive. I wasn’t even mad, and I respect your privacy, truly. Just… don’t disappear like that again.”
“Don’t worry. Those circumstances won’t repeat.” Her voice dips with a sadness I can’t decipher.
“But Ames… didn’t you miss me? Even a little?” I blurt. “I lost my mind. I couldn’t even focus on Aditi. She felt hurt because I wasn’t myself.” Her expression shifts into confusion.
“But why, Rey? She’s your girlfriend. She deserves your full attention when she’s with you. You shouldn’t carry your bitterness to her.” Panic flickers across her face. “I can’t imagine my sister being uncomfortable because of me.” She begins pacing, her eyes darting around.
“I thought you two were doing fine…”
“Ames, take a breath.” I place my hands on her shoulders. She nods and inhales deeply.
“We’re going to be fine. And don’t blame yourself for anything. I’m the one who needs to learn how to balance things. I’ve been so invested in our friendship that I—”
“Rey, stop.” Her voice sharpens, frustrated and disappointed. “A relationship comes first as it involves two lives. You shouldn’t lose focus because of a rough patch in our friendship. You need to do better. Prioritise her so that you won't hurt her.” Her words twist painfully in my chest as she turns and walks out of the library. The silence she leaves behind feels heavy. Her words repeat in my mind, and I know she’s right.
I should prioritise my relationship. I should give my best to Aditi. But why didn’t I feel like myself when I was away from Amyra? Why does her presence feel essential to lead a normal life?
My head throbs with confusion, but one thing is clear:I need to figure out the answer very soon.
Chapter 11
