the unsent project. | Taylor Swift, One-Shots

"I wish u knew how in love with u I am."

Unsent Message #1:

To Taylor:
Ur asleep right
now on our
friends couch in
the other room
and I wish u knew
how in love with u
I am

• • • • •

Riley James is a well-known 30-year-old American actress who has been in the industry for almost two decades and it was a job she absolutely adored. Given the fact that she grew up under the spotlight, her friend groups were mostly conformed by fellow celebrities and tonight's gathering's guests were no exception.

The actress currently found herself in Upstate New York, happily taking a break from filming a movie in Boston, to celebrate one of her best friends' 36th birthday, Blake Lively. Riley not only loved Blake so dearly, but she also loved the friends Blake usually surrounded herself with. Specially one blonde, tall and gorgeous 33-year-old super star, Taylor Swift.

Here's the thing, Riley and Taylor met each other through their mutual friendship with Blake and hit it off instantly, quickly becoming friends without the present need of their connection. Riley James was part of what some people would have called "Taylor Swift's squad" at one point.

There's just one slight detail, Riley has been in love with Taylor for years now and, the problem was, Taylor had been in a serious and committed relationship for the entire time Riley has known her. So, the actress decided to swallow her feelings and keep them to herself, or at least hidden away from Taylor since Blake was very quick to catch onto it years ago. Riley made her swear to secrecy, though, and Blake was one to keep her word.

But, things changed earlier this year when Taylor and Joe, finally, called it quits after almost 7 years of dating. Riley knew that although this was her chance to finally make a move, she needed to give Taylor time to grieve, so, for the first few months, she offered Taylor a friendly shoulder to lean on in case she needed it, despite Blake's constant begs to finally make a move. But, tonight? Someone might finally give in and take a step in the right direction.

• • • • •

The soft glow of the string lights adorned Blake's backyard, casting a warm ambiance as laughter and music filled the air. Riley leaned against the railing of the deck, sipping her drink while watching the festivities. Taylor stood a few feet away, engaged in conversation with another friend.

"Riley, why do you always look like you're in your own little world?" Blake chuckled, sidling up next to her.

"Just enjoying the view, I guess," Riley replied, trying to seem nonchalant.

Blake nudged her playfully. "Uh-huh, sure. Is it the view or someone in particular?"

Riley felt a blush creep up her cheeks, but she managed a casual shrug. "Just taking it all in."

Blake raised an eyebrow. "Sure, Ri. Just remember, life's too short to wait around forever."

Riley took a deep breath, trying to summon the courage she'd been holding back for years. "Blake, I know you mean well, but I just... I don't want to risk our friendship, you know? And Taylor, she's been through a lot lately. I can't just..."

"You can't just what?" Blake interrupted, her tone serious. "Riley, sometimes you have to take a chance. Taylor's strong, and she cares about you. You've been there for her. Maybe it's time to let her know how you feel."

Riley resisted the urge to roll her eyes at her friend. She knew Blake cared, and she appreciated it, but she had heard this same speech numerous times before. "She just broke up with Joe, Blake."