The Rude Awakening of Love

22 - The Space Between Us

Emerson's POV

FRIDAY MORNING

I woke up feeling drained. The argument from the night before replayed in my mind, each moment more painful than the last.

I had tried so hard to reach out, but it felt like Dakota was slipping further away.

After a quick shower, I made my way to the kitchen, hoping for a distraction.

As I poured myself a cup of coffee, I caught a glimpse of Dakota through the window, running in the crisp morning air. He looked so free out there, yet her I was, stuck in this turmoil.

I wanted to understand him, to break down the walls he kept building, but every time I tried, he pushed me back.

Sophia's POV

FRIDAY AFTERNOON

Ellie and I were sitting at the coffee shop, sipping our drinks and chatting.

"Have you noticed how Dakota's been acting lately?" I asked, concern etched on my face.

"Yeah," Ellie replied, glancing around to ensure they wouldn't be overheard. "He's been short with everyone, especially Emerson. It's like he's pushing her away."

I nodded, frowning. "I saw it the other night at their place. He was so rude to her when she was just trying to connect."

"That's not like him," Ellie said, shaking her head.

"Maybe we should talk to Emerson about it," I suggested, my eyes brightening at with the idea. "She deserves to know she's not alone in this."

"Definitely" Ellie agreed.

------

Ellie knocked on the door as we waited for Emerson.

She opened the door, "Hey!"

"Hey, can we come in?" I asked, glancing around to gauge her mood.

"Of course," Emerson replied, stepping aside. "What's up?"

Once inside, we settled on the couch.

"Is everything okay?" Emerson asked.

I exchanged a look with Ellie before speaking. "We wanted to check in on you. We've noticed how Dakota's been treating you lately."

"Yeah, I've noticed too. He's been really rude and distant."

"I don't think that's who he really is," Ellie said, leaning forward. "He's been going through a lot, but that doesn't excuse his behavior."

"I don't understand why he's pushing me away," Emerson admitted, her voice trembling slightly. "I just want to help him."

I placed a reassuring hand on her arm. "You're doing the right thing by being there for him. But he needs to realize shutting you out isn't the solution."

"I just wish he'd talk to me," Emerson said, frustration spilling over. "I feel like I'm losing him."

Ellie looked thoughtful. "Maybe we should encourage him to open up. We can't change how he feels, but we can help him see that he doesn't have to deal with everything alone."