From the outset

Thirteen

Scarlett's POV:

This morning, On Ryan's way out to Victoria's house. Our eyes met. The way he looked at me - with an intensity that made my skin prickle - left me breathless. But I knew better. I shouldn't harbor feelings for him pending the fact that he is in a relationship but I could help it.

I paced around the living room, glancing at the clock for what felt like the hundredth time. It's evening already and Ryan had promised to take me around town when he returned from Victoria's, but hours had passed with no sign of him.

A nagging voice whispered in my head: "He's probably spending quality time with Victoria, forgetting all about you."

Jealousy simmered, threatening to boil over. I tried to shake it off, reminding myself  that she was his girlfriend after all. But why did it sting so much?

My fingers itched to call Ryan, to confirm our plans, but I hesitated. Was I being too forward?

"What if he's busy?" I thought. "What if Victoria needs him?"

I sank onto the couch, frustration and disappointment swirling inside me.

As I paced around the living room, Emily walked in and noticed my distressed expression.

She settled beside me on the couch, concern etched on her face. "Hey, what's going on? You've been distracted all evening."

I hesitated, unsure how to articulate my worries. "It's nothing," I said, trying to brush it off.

Emily's gaze lingered. "Scarlett, I know you. Something's bothering you."

I sighed, fidgeting with my hands. "It's just... Ryan said he'd take me around town tonight, but he's still at Victoria's."

Emily's expression changed from concern to understanding. "You're worried he forgot about you?"

I nodded, feeling silly. "It sounds stupid, doesn't it?"

Emily shook her head. "No, it's natural to feel that way. You were looking forward to spending time with him."

I glanced at Emily, grateful for her empathy. "What if he's just being polite? What if he doesn't really want to hang out?"

Emily's voice was gentle. "My brother is not that kind of person. He'll come through."

I took a deep breath, letting my words spill out. "I need to tell you something Emily I  think I have feelings for Ryan."

Emily's eyes sparkled with surprise but was replaced with a mix of happiness and concern.
"Scarlett, I had no idea! But you know..." She trailed off her brow furrowed.

"I know," I said finishing her sentence
"He's in a relationship. But anytime I'm around him I feel this connection. I can't ignore it."

"I understand babes I've been there before, have u tried talking to Ryan?"

I shook my head, "No, I'm scared. What if he doesn't feel the same way." I said with a worried tone.

Emily's voice was reassuring. "You need to talk to him, Scarlett. Hiding your feelings won't make them disappear."

I nodded, determination growing within me. "Alright I'll talk to him when I get the chance to and find out if he feels the same way about me but if not I'll respect that."

Emily smiles, relived evidence on her face
" That's the best approach. Just be honest and open up, Scarlett."

"Thanks Emily." I said with a bright smile.

"Anytime." She said with that cute smile of hers.

As we hugged, I felt a sense of relief glad that Emily understood me.