During their senior year of college, they met up for a weekend in the city where Ethan was studying. Over coffee in a cozy café, Lila looked at Ethan differently.
"You've grown up," she said, her voice tinged with surprise.
"So have you," Ethan replied, his gaze lingering on her a second too long.
That night, as they walked along the riverbank, Ethan nearly confessed his feelings. But then Lila started talking about a guy she'd been seeing.
"He's great, Ethan. I think he might be the one," she said, her face glowing.
Ethan forced a smile. "That's amazing, Lila. I'm happy for you."
His words were sincere, even though his heart ached.