unrequited feelings

Once upon a time in a small town, there was this guy named Max. Now, Max was your typical easygoing dude—always cracking jokes, hanging out with friends at the local diner, you name it. But there was one thing about Max that nobody really knew: he had a massive crush on his childhood friend, Emma.

Emma was the kind of girl who lit up the room with her smile. She was smart, funny, and had this knack for making everyone feel special. Max and Emma had been buddies since forever, sharing secrets, playing video games, and exploring the woods behind their neighborhood.

But as they grew older, Max started feeling something more than friendship. Whenever Emma laughed, Max's heart would do this weird flip-flop thing. He'd catch himself staring at her a bit too long, and then awkwardly look away when she caught him.

Meanwhile, Emma was completely oblivious to Max's feelings. She talked to him about her crushes, seeking advice on dates and whatnot. And poor Max? He'd listen attentively, nodding like a supportive friend while dying a little inside with each word.

One day, at a summer carnival, Max finally decided to spill the beans. They were on the Ferris wheel, the sun setting behind them in a wash of oranges and pinks. Max took a deep breath, ready to confess everything. But just as he opened his mouth, Emma excitedly pointed out her latest crush who was down below, waving at them.

Max's heart sank. He plastered on a smile, trying to hide the disappointment. He nodded and joked along with Emma, pretending everything was cool. But deep down, he knew his feelings would stay buried forever.

Years passed, and Max eventually moved away for college. He kept in touch with Emma, but things were never quite the same. Emma found love elsewhere, got married, and started a family. Max cheered her on from afar, genuinely happy for her but always wondering what could have been.

And that's the story of Max and his unrequited feelings—sometimes, life hands you lemons, and you just have to make lemonade, even if it's bittersweet.