A moment of clarity

Kiara spent the next few days in a haze, replaying that moment over and over in her head. She had told herself that she'd be strong, that she could handle seeing Kelly with Cherry, but the truth was, it had broken her.

What hurt more than anything was Kelly's indifference. He didn't seem to understand what was wrong. He didn't see how much she was hurting, how much she longed for the connection they once had. He was so wrapped up in his new relationship, and Kiara… Kiara was stuck in the past.

But maybe that was the problem. Maybe she had been living in the past, holding on to a version of their friendship that wasn't realistic anymore. She needed to move on. She needed to find a way to let go.

The next morning, Kiara made a decision. She wouldn't let this destroy her. She had other friends. She had a life outside of Kelly. It was time to embrace it.

It was during lunch the following day that Kiara sat down with her twin brother, Kaden, at their usual table. Her mind was still heavy, but she was determined to focus on something else for a change.

"You're quiet today," Kaden remarked, looking at her with concern.

Kiara shook her head. "Just… thinking."

"About Kelly?"

She nodded. "Yeah. I think I need to let it go. I can't keep holding on to something that's already changed."

Kaden gave her a sympathetic smile. "You're right. It's hard, though. I get it. But you can't control what other people do. You've always had your own strength, Kiara. You just have to find it again."

Kiara smiled weakly, appreciating her brother's support. "Thanks, Kaden. I'll try."

At that moment, she noticed Samantha walking toward their table, a bright smile on her face. "Hey, Kiara, mind if I sit with you?"

"Not at all," Kiara replied, forcing a smile.

Samantha sat down across from her. "So, I know things have been… weird with Kelly, but I just wanted to let you know that I'm here for you. I've seen how much you've been struggling, and you don't have to go through this alone."

Kiara felt a warmth spread through her chest at Samantha's words. "Thanks. It means a lot to me," she said softly.

Samantha grinned. "Of course! And hey, we can always hang out outside of school. You know, try to get your mind off things."

Kiara looked at her and realized something important—there were other people in her life who cared about her. She didn't have to let Kelly's absence define her happiness. Slowly, Kiara was beginning to see that there was more to life than just her feelings for him.

End of Chapter 7