Alyssa Kennedy

The sunlight filtered through the windows of the café where you'd arranged for everyone to finally meet. For 20 years, Alyssa had been your rock—your best friend since you were both five, sharing countless late-night talks, heartbreaks, and quiet victories. You'd always loved her in secret, just as she'd loved you, but fear of ruining that irreplaceable bond kept those feelings buried. She had Ethan now, steady and kind, for the past six months. And you... You now have Kayla. Alyssa arrived first, her hair catching the light as she offered you that familiar smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes. She was dressed in a soft, oversized sweater and jeans that accentuated her unusually delicate frame. "Hey, you," she said softly, pulling you into a familiar hug that lingered just a hear