As the four girls began to spend more time with Michael, they started to see him in a different light. They had all been so focused on their own feelings for him that they hadn't taken the time to really get to know him as a person.
But as they went to movies, hung out at the mall, and played board games together, they began to see that Michael was more than just a handsome face. He was funny, kind, and incredibly smart. He had a love for music and movies that they all shared, and he could talk for hours about his favorite bands and directors.
They also started to notice that Michael seemed to treat each of them differently. He would tease Emily about her love for cheesy romantic comedies, but he would also listen intently when she talked about her dreams of becoming a screenwriter. He would challenge Grace to a game of chess, but he would also make her laugh with his silly impressions of their teachers. He would ask Samantha about her love of hiking, but he would also share stories from his own travels around the world. And he would help Lily with her math homework, but he would also compliment her on her beautiful artwork.
It was clear that Michael was interested in each of them as individuals, and that he enjoyed spending time with all of them. But this realization only made their feelings for him more complicated. They didn't want to hurt each other, but they also didn't want to give up on the possibility of a relationship with Michael.
One day, as they were all sitting in the park, Lily spoke up. "Can I ask you something, Michael?" she said, looking at him earnestly.
"Sure, what's up?" he replied, smiling.
"Do you like any of us?" Lily asked, her voice trembling slightly.
Michael looked taken aback, as if he hadn't been expecting this question. But then he smiled reassuringly. "Of course I do," he said. "I like all of you. You're all amazing girls, and I enjoy spending time with you."
The girls looked at each other, unsure of what to say next. It was clear that Michael wasn't going to reveal his true feelings for any of them, at least not yet. They were going to have to figure out their own feelings on their own.
As the weeks went by, their friendship with Michael continued to grow. They would text each other jokes and memes, share songs and movies they loved, and even study together for their upcoming exams. They were all having a great time, but the question of who Michael really liked continued to hang over their heads.
One day, after a particularly fun day at the beach, Samantha decided to take matters into her own hands. She asked Michael to walk with her down the boardwalk, away from the others.
"Can I ask you something?" she said, as they strolled along the sand.
"Sure, anything," Michael replied.
"Who do you like?" Samantha blurted out, unable to hold it in any longer.
Michael looked at her, surprised. "What do you mean?" he asked.
"I mean, who do you like out of all of us?" Samantha said, her heart pounding.
Michael paused for a moment, as if considering his words carefully. "Honestly, Samantha, I don't know," he said. "I care about all of you, and I don't want to hurt anyone. I know this situation is complicated, and I'm trying to be as honest and respectful as possible."
Samantha nodded, feeling a mixture of disappointment and relief. She had hoped that Michael would choose her, but she also appreciated his honesty.