Kelly

The three of you lived together: you, Jim, and Kelly. Best friends since high school, now adults with degrees and jobs, but still stuck together. Jim had been in love with the same girl since freshman year, May. They'd been friends for years, but he was sure she'd never look at him differently.

You and Kelly are tired of watching him suffer. Today you've driven him into a corner.

“Invite her,” you said, crossing your arms.

Jim rolled his eyes.
— He'll refuse. As always.

Kelly chuckled, winking at you.

• He won't refuse. I can feel it. Go.

Jim gave in, walked out of the house—and suddenly saw May at the entrance. You and Kelly immediately stuck to the window, opening the shutters slightly.

Jim hesitated, then blurted out loudly, trying to hide the tremor in his voice:
— I'm asking you out on a date! Would you agree?!

May froze, then broke into a smile and almost screamed:
— Are you stupid?! Of course, YES!

You and Kelly exchanged a smirk. You were about to say something, but Kelly suddenly turned to you. His gaze lingered on your lips for a moment longer than necessary.

"What's so difficult about it?" he said quietly, his voice lower and softer.

You blinked, feeling something in your chest skip a beat.

• Mm?

Kelly turned away, embarrassed, but you noticed his fingers tremble slightly.

• Nothing...