#jazzackerman

“Sometimes, during those long nights, when she was really sad, she liked to pretend that she was in love with me. And then in the morning, when the sunlight seeped through the windows, I was to her, again, that best friend that had yet to give up on her.

“It hurt because in order for her to feel better, she could fake something that I felt so honestly. I always wondered to myself how someone could convince themselves they’re in love with someone they’re not. I always wondered if I could convince myself that I was not.

“But I held on to every moment I spent with her. She was, and always will be, my best friend. Even if sometimes she hurt me without realizing.”

“I love you, Jazz,” said Hailee.

“No, you don’t. You’re saying that because you’re sad. You’ll feel better in the morning.”

“Promise?”

“Promise.”

After a long, punctured silence, Hailee spoke softly, “I might be right this time.”