The strain of hiding their relationship took a toll on both girls. Emily became distant from her family, spending less time at home, retreating into her room whenever her parents wanted to talk. Her little brother, who had once been her confidant, seemed to sense something was off, and the once-strong sibling bond began to fray.
One evening, Emily's father confronted her directly. "Is there something you're not telling us?"
Emily's throat tightened. She shook her head, fear paralyzing her.
Meanwhile, Ava's parents grew increasingly uneasy, warning her that the rumors could affect her future. "Colleges look at your reputation, Ava," her mother warned. "This town may be small, but its whispers are loud."
But Ava had long since decided: she wasn't going to give up on Emily. Not for anything.