Karim's POV:
One evening, after another long day of work, I saw Kristen's message pop up on my phone. My heart sank. I knew what was coming.
I knew it was time to face what I'd been avoiding.
I took a deep breath and opened the message. "Hey, Karim. We need to talk. What's going on with us? Why am I always the one reaching out first?"
Her words hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt a knot tighten in my chest.
How could I explain the mess inside my head?
How could I tell her that I was drowning in my own fears and insecurities?
I typed out a quick reply, knowing it was inadequate, knowing it wouldn't satisfy her.
"I'm really busy, Kristen. Work is hectic. Sorry."
As soon as I sent it, I felt a pang of guilt. I hated myself for how cold and impersonal it sounded, but I didn't have the energy to deal with it.
I buried myself in my work, trying to ignore the gnawing feeling in my gut.
I knew she was right.
