REN LET OUT a heavy sigh, "How did things become so fucked up?" But she knew the truth, things became bad when she started developing feelings–romantic feelings.

"We stopped talking." Keanu replies, taking a drag of his cigarette. He knew she hated the smell of cigarettes; almost as much as she hated how that he smoked them in the first place.

"Yeah, I guess we did." Ren mutters, thinking back before everything went to complete shit.

Life had been simpler back then, especially when the two of them were just kids. Ren didn't worry about love, especially not when cooties existed. But they grew up, met new people, and things started to change for better or worst.

But it's too late now. Things are different now, and the only thing they can focus on is what happens next.

"What happens now?" Keanu asks, glancing at the brunette next to him.

"I wish I knew." Ren spoke softly, looking right back at her best friend.

Three Months ago...

Life began to changed, and it all started as a normal day at Adams High School. Ren sauntered into the doors, heading towards her locker, with River right behind her.

"Have you seen Keanu yet?" Ren asked, unlocking the locket and opening her locker. Her locker was well kept, had photos of friends and idols, and held snacks.

"No, he came her early today. He had something to say to Jennifer." River answered, directing his gaze anywhere but at Ren.

Ren collected her AP Chemistry book, glancing at River, "Sounds like you know something."

"Well, I might but I don't kno–" River stuttered out, but he couldn't finish his sentence as a familiar voice cut him off.

"Hey guys, guess what?" Keanu jovially asked, but what caught Ren's attention was the hand intertwined with his.

Oh.

"We're dating!" Jennifer answers, a big grin on her face, and she never looked more gorgeous than that moment.

Ren wasn't really sure what she was feeling, it just seemed as if all her emotions tackled her down. The world paused, and she couldn't say a word.

If Ren mumbled out a "congrats," she were sure she'd start crying. That wouldn't be the reaction neither Keanu or Jennifer would had wanted, especially since they're her good friends.

But that's the thing, Ren never wanted to JUST be friends with Keanu. He was more to her, but it's too late now.

"That's nice, Keanu. I'm happy for you." River spoke out, sending glances at Ren. Ren simply nodded, giving a small faux smile.

Even if it seemed that the new couple was too oblivious in their happiness, River had noticed the change in Ren's demeanor.

And throughout the day, in the classes he had with her, he'd watch out for her. He cared, in fact, he cared just as much as Ren cared for Keanu.

But it's not like she knows, and it hurts to know that what he's feeling is unrequited.

Perhaps Ren's heartbreak was a blessing in disguise, and now River could show her how he feels. But until she realizes, he'll be here for her, because he's in love.

It's already past 2:30 PM, and school is over. River is walking Ren home, which was a change for once. Usually, they'd carpool with Keanu, but it seemed that the small things were already changing.

One step at a time, it'll all change.

The walk between them had been a silent one, so silent, it was suffocating him.

"It's okay to be sad, Ren." River told her, and the smile he wore seemed so sweet and comforting. Ren couldn't help but to burst into tears, finally letting go of her suppressed feelings.

River simply brought her into a hug to comfort her because that's what friends do. But he wishes they were more, but maybe it isn't too late for him.