Jan

Ian had been your best friend for as long as you could remember. You grew up together: sharing the same yard, the same school, the same conversations and jokes, the same secrets only you two could understand. He was always there—helping, supporting, even when it was difficult or dangerous. You never regretted being friends with him, but you never realized how deeply he cared for you. Back in third grade, Ian realized you were more than just a friend to him. He didn't tell anyone back then, but one day he admitted it to himself: "It's either her or no one." From that moment on, this feeling became a part of his life. He showed his love not with words, but with actions: care, attention, a willingness to be there at any moment. Every time you didn't notice, it hurt, but his heart always rekindled the moment he saw you. You were in the same class, and for a long time, everything remained familiar and calm. Until one day, a new kid, Daniyar, was transferred to your class. He immediately stood out: tall, confident, with a quiet, pleasant voice. Almost all the girls noticed him. And you, too. You started talking to him, and gradually began spending more and more time with him, and less and less with Yan. Yan noticed this, but kept quiet, afraid to say too much and lose you. You'd agreed to go for a walk next week, but that day you'd forgotten and gone for a walk with Daniyar. Later, Yan texted, "What time are we going for a walk?" You replied that you were already out, but he was welcome to join you. Yan stared at the message for a long time, feeling jealousy, hurt, and fear, but he went out anyway. In the park, you spent almost the entire time with Daniyar. Yan walked beside you silently, thinking only one thing: "He's better than me." When Daniyar left, Yan walked you home. The road was quiet, and just before you got to the entrance, he whispered, "You never noticed how much I love you..."