Back in college, I had this friend (We’ll call him Jake). We clicked from the beginning like from the first day of school, and he was always there for me, especially when it came to my boyfriend drama. Jake was my go to friend for venting about my relationship, sharing secrets, and yes, even discussing intimate details about my boyfriend and me. It never seemed to faze him, and I never thought twice about it.

One day, I discovered my boyfriend had been cheating on me. I was heartbroken and confused, my world spinning. Jake was there, as always, and he suggested coming over to my dorm to talk. I appreciated his support, assuming he was just being the great friend he always was.

When Jake arrived, he looked serious. He sat me down on my bed and said, "I'm glad you're out of that relationship, but there's something I need to tell you." My mind raced, thinking it had to be some new information about my ex… I still wanted to get back with him, despite everything. ☠️

Jake continued, "I knew he was cheating on you. I wanted to tell you, but I couldn't. I knew he made you happy, and I didn't want to take that from you. But now that it's over, I need to tell you something else….. I've been in love with you and it hurt me seeing him treat you that way. I really like you and want to be with you."

I was stunned. Jake, my friend, was confessing his love? I felt zero attraction to him that way. I had never given him any sign that I saw him as more than a friend. My mind was still on my trash cheating ex, and this was the last thing I expected.

I tried to gather my thoughts and gently said, "No, Jake. You're not in love with me. You're just confused. We're just really good friends."

Jake's face fell, and the room grew unbearably awkward. I don't remember much after that because it was so uncomfortable. I think I made up an excuse saying I need to do homework and he just said ok, thanks for talking and left shortly after, looking defeated.

A couple of days later, I ended up back in bed with my ex, even though he was still dating the girl he cheated on me with. It was a chaotic, messy time, but hey that’s college. This girl was dick-ma-tized by a very mediocre man. I feel badly for Jake, but also me just gaslighting him saying he isn’t actually in love with me is kinda slay ngl.