Why Can't We Share Him?

Lila and Maya had been inseparable since childhood. Growing up in the same neighborhood, attending the same schools, and sharing the same dreams had solidified a bond that seemed unbreakable. They had faced everything together, from schoolyard bullies to teenage heartbreaks, always finding solace in each other's company.

That was until Jake entered their lives.

Jake was the new guy at their college, with an easy charm and a smile that could light up a room. It wasn't long before both Lila and Maya found themselves drawn to him. At first, it was harmless fun—sharing stories of their encounters with him, laughing about his jokes, and daydreaming about his smile. But as time went on, the harmless fun turned into something more complicated.

One sunny afternoon, the three of them were sitting under a large oak tree in the campus courtyard. Jake had just told another one of his captivating stories, and Lila and Maya were laughing heartily, their eyes sparkling with delight.

"You two are something else," Jake said, grinning. "I don't think I've ever met friends as close as you two."

Lila glanced at Maya, a fleeting moment of unease passing between them. It was becoming harder to ignore the growing tension. Later that evening, when they were alone in their dorm room, the unspoken words finally found their way out.

"Maya," Lila began cautiously, "I think I have feelings for Jake."

Maya looked down, her fingers fidgeting with the edge of her blanket. "I do too, Lila. I didn't want to say anything because I didn't want to hurt you."

Lila sighed, her heart heavy. "This is tearing me apart. We've always shared everything, but this... I don't think we can share him."

The next few days were filled with awkward silences and strained conversations. Neither wanted to step on the other's toes, yet both were deeply infatuated with Jake. Their once joyous friendship was now overshadowed by jealousy and insecurity.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the campus, Jake approached them with a serious expression. "Can we talk?" he asked, his voice gentle but firm.

Lila and Maya nodded, following him to a secluded bench by the lake. The cool breeze rustled the leaves, and the serene setting was a stark contrast to the turmoil within their hearts.

"I care about both of you," Jake began, his eyes earnest. "But I can't come between your friendship. It's clear to me how much you mean to each other. I don't want to be the reason you drift apart."

Lila felt a lump form in her throat. She glanced at Maya, seeing her own pain mirrored in her friend's eyes. They both nodded, understanding the gravity of Jake's words.

"I think it's best if we just remain friends," Jake continued, his gaze shifting between them. "The bond you two share is special, and I would hate to see it damaged because of me."

As Jake walked away, Lila and Maya sat in silence, the weight of the situation settling in. Tears welled up in Maya's eyes, and Lila reached out, taking her hand.

"I'm sorry, Maya," Lila whispered, her voice trembling. "I never wanted this to come between us."

Maya squeezed her hand, a tear rolling down her cheek. "Me neither, Lila. I love you, and I don't want to lose you."

In that moment, they realized that their friendship was worth more than any romantic.