I Don't Want You Like A Bestfriend // Macolet

Chapter 4 - Jealous

The next day was a Saturday, and the weekend stretched ahead of us with endless possibilities. Around mid-morning, a message popped up in our group chat from Gwen: "Hey guys, anyone free to hang out today?"

I was about to reply when Colet's message came through first. "Sorry, can't make it today. I'm going to a café with Jhoanna."

A pang of jealousy hit me. I tried to ignore it, but the feeling lingered like a shadow. The others quickly responded with their availability, understanding Colet's plans without question.

"Looks like it's the rest of us, then," Mikha wrote. "Let's meet at the park and decide from there."

We gathered at the park, the sun shining brightly overhead. The usual laughter and chatter filled the air, but I found it hard to focus. My thoughts kept drifting to Colet and Jhoanna.

Mikha and Sheena were the first to notice something was off. As we walked, Mikha nudged me gently. "Hey, you okay? You seem a bit out of it."

Sheena chimed in, her voice filled with concern. "Yeah, you haven't been yourself today. Want to grab something to eat and talk about it?"

Reluctantly, I agreed, and we found a quiet café nearby. Sitting down with our food, Mikha and Sheena didn't waste any time.

"So, what's going on, Maloi?" Sheena asked gently.

I hesitated, looking down at my drink. "It's... complicated."

Aiah leaned forward, her expression serious but kind. "We're your friends, Maloi. You can tell us anything."

Taking a deep breath, I finally admitted the truth. "I think I have feelings for Colet."

There was a moment of silence, then Gwen reached across the table and squeezed my hand. "Thanks for telling us. That must have been hard to admit."

Mikha nodded in agreement. "Don't worry, your secret's safe with us."

We finished our food, and I started to feel a bit better. But then I checked my phone and saw a new photo posted by Colet-her and Jhoanna at the café, laughing and looking like they were having the time of their lives. My heart sank again, and I couldn't hide my feelings from my friends.

"Come on," Mikha said, standing up. "Let's hit the arcade. We need to get your mind off things."

The arcade was a whirlwind of lights and sounds. We played every game we could find, and gradually, my mood began to lift. By the time we were ready to leave, I felt more like myself again.

As we were about to head home, my phone buzzed with a message from Colet. "Hey, want me to pick you up?"

I stared at the screen for a moment before replying, "No, it's okay. I'll catch a taxi." I ignored her next few messages, not wanting to deal with my mixed emotions.

When I got home, I was surprised to find Colet waiting at the front of my apartment. She looked worried. "Maloi, can we talk?"

I tried to brush past her. "Not now, Colet."

She didn't budge, blocking my way. "Please, Maloi. I know something's wrong."

Finally, I relented and let her in. We sat on my bed, the silence between us heavy. Colet was the first to speak. "I know you're upset. Talk to me. What's going on?"

I took a deep breath, trying to find the right words. "I just... I felt a bit left out today. Seeing you with Jhoanna made me feel like maybe you're replacing me."

Colet's eyes softened, and she took my hand. "Maloi, you could never be replaced. Jhoanna's a new friend, but you are my best friend. That will never change."

Her words were a balm to my aching heart, but the feelings I'd confessed to Mikha and Sheena still lingered beneath the surface. For now, though, I let her reassurance wash over me.

We sat there for a while, talking and laughing, just like always. And even though my feelings for her were still unresolved, I knew that no matter what, Colet would always be there for me. As I drifted off to sleep that night, I felt a renewed sense of hope, knowing that our bond was strong enough to weather any storm.