As soon as they entered the room, Michelle shut the door and threw herself on the bed.
"We did it, Ava! Can you believe it?"
she said, grinning. We actually convinced your mom to let you stay over!"
Ava smiled back, but it didnât quite reach her eyes.
She sat on the edge of the bed, her thoughts still tangled in the conversation with her father.
Michelle noticed immediately. She had never seen Ava like this before."
Ava?" she asked softly."Whatâs wrong?"
Ava hesitated. Should I tell her? Should I open up about everything?
Doubt crept in. What if she thinks Iâm weak? What if she distances herself after knowing the truth? What if this ruins our friendship?
Michelle, now even more curious, scooted closer.
"Ava, I know somethingâs bothering you. I can see it in your eyes.
You know you can talk to me, right?"
Ava remained silent.
Michelle reached out and gently squeezed Avaâs hand. "Weâre best friends, arenât we? Nothing should stay a secret between us. I promise, whatever it is, Iâll listen. And Iâll never leave you."
Avaâs heart pounded. This was it.
The moment to decide if she should finally let someone in.
She took a deep breath, and thenâ
She opened her mouth to speak.