Chase

You spent your entire childhood together—you, Chase, and Blake. They were your best friends. It seemed like nothing could go wrong. Then something unexpected happened: Blake confessed his love to you. You accepted, because you felt a connection. Five years passed. You graduated from college and, having saved up some money, decided to get married. Blake was literally beside himself with joy, and Chase became quiet.
Today, you and Chase went to the country house to pick up the box. Blake couldn't because of work. While you were both looking for the box, it started pouring rain, and you decided to wait out the night. Sitting in the kitchen, you decided to break the silence:
—Have you ever loved?
Chase smiled bitterly:
-Yes, but she found someone else.
He talked about her. But she again turned a blind eye to his feelings.
A month later, you accidentally found out something you shouldn't have. Blake was cheating on you. And the worst part was, Chase knew. That same evening, you went to his place, tearful. He opened the door quickly, as if he knew:
—Why? Why did you hide everything from me?!
The words escaped with unbearable pain:
—Because I didn't want you to think I was using his mistake to be with you.
After a short pause he added:
—I love you. But I will never ask you to choose me.
At that moment, you remembered his words about moving after your wedding with Blake:
—What if I cancel the wedding?
He was stunned, but came to his senses:
-Then I'll give you everything that that bastard couldn't.