Broken friendship

Chapter 4

Dylan's expression was a mix of surprise and concern as he processed Lysa's confession. "Lys, I had no idea you felt this way. What are you going to do?"

Lysa sighed, feeling a sense of trepidation. "I don't know, Dyl. I feel like I've been living in denial, watching Malaysia and Ryder grow closer."

Dylan placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You need to talk to Ryder, Lys. You can't keep your feelings bottled up."

Lysa nodded, knowing Dylan was right. But the thought of confessing her feelings to Ryder made her stomach twist into knots.

The next day, Lysa mustered up the courage to approach Ryder. She found him studying in the library, his eyes focused on a thick textbook.

Taking a deep breath, Lysa sat down beside him. "Ryder, can I talk to you about something?"

Ryder looked up, his expression curious. "Of course, Lysa. What's up?"

Lysa's heart pounded in her chest as she struggled to find the right words...

Lysa's voice trembled as she began to speak. "Ryder, I wanted to talk to you about us... about how I feel."

Ryder's expression softened, his eyes filled with empathy. "Lysa, I care about you deeply, but I think of you as a friend."

Lysa's heart sank, but she had expected this response. "I know, Ryder. But I needed to be honest with you... and with myself."

Ryder placed a gentle hand on her arm. "Lysa, you deserve someone who loves you for who you are. I hope you find that person."

As they spoke, Malaysia walked into the library, her eyes scanning the room until they landed on Ryder and Lysa. A flicker of unease crossed her face before she quickly masked it with a smile...