As Reese sits on the couch with Leona, her own thoughts and emotions are racing. Seeing her best friend in such pain is breaking Reese's heart. But beneath that, there's something else - a nagging feeling that she's been trying to ignore for a long time.
Reese looks down at Leona, who's still crying quietly. She brushes a strand of hair away from her face, trying to keep her own emotions in check.
"Shhh, it's okay," Reese says gently. "Let it out."
Leona takes a shaky breath. "I just.. I just can't believe he did that.." she says hiccuping. "Niloko niya 'ko, Reese.. it's been a month but.. but.."
Reese wraps a comforting arm around her best friend's shoulders and pulls her close. She knows she has feelings for Leona that go beyond just friendship. But she's always kept those feelings hidden, knowing that Leona sees her as just a best friend.
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It's been a week since Reese visited Leona at her apartment. Despite her best efforts, Leona has been distant and closed off. She's been avoiding Reese's calls and texts, and only responds with short messages saying that she just needs space. Reese is growing worried and concerned, but she's trying to respect her friend's need for space.
"Tita, nakakausap niyo pa po ba si Leona?"
Leona's mother, Helene, gave Leona a head nod. "Sometimes, Hija." She took a deep sigh. "I'm really worried about Leona, Reese. After her break-up with her boyfriend.. she said she just needs some space pero parang lumalayo na siya saamin. Even her sister can't reach her. Hindi siya ganiyan noon, Hija."
Reese just stared at Leona's mother, worried. "Susubukan ko po siyang kausapin, Tita.. kahit ayaw niya rin po akong kausapin."
Helene squeezes Leona's hand tightly. "Thank you, Reese. You're the only one who I feel I can trust to when it comes to my daughter. Siguro naman, makikinig na siya sa'yo ngayon, 'di ba?"
"Hindi po ako sigurado, Tita.."
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It had been another week since Reese had last tried to reach out to Leona, and her best friend was still avoiding her. Reese couldn't take it anymore - she knew she had to take action.
Reese slammed her fist against the door, frustration and worry mixing in her chest. "Leona.. please, open.."
When the door opened, Leona's eyes widened in shock as she saw Reese standing outside. Before she could say a word, Reese grabbed her hand and pulled her out of the apartment, closing the door firmly behind them.
"Reese, a-ano ginagawa mo?!" Leona stumbled as Reese tugged her down the hallway, her voice a mixture of surprise and annoyance.
Reese didn't stop until they reached the parking lot, where she led Leona to her car and forcefully opened the passenger door.
"Get in." Reese commanded, her voice leaving no room for arguments.
"A-Anong ginagawa natin dito? Saan tayo pupunta?!"
Reese turned to Leona, her expression stern. "Just get in the car."
Leona opened her mouth to protest, but the determined look on Reese's face silenced her. Without another word, she reluctantly climbed into the passenger seat.
