Ava sat on their favorite park bench, watching the children play. She was lost in thought, grappling with her growing feelings for her best friend.

Leo, her best friend, joined her, his usual cheerful self. He was oblivious to the turmoil Ava was going through.

Back in her room, Ava looked at the pictures of her and Leo. She cherished their friendship and feared losing it.

She decided to hide her feelings, to avoid any awkwardness. But, the more she tried, the more it hurt.

At school, it was hard for Ava to act normal around Leo. Her feelings were growing stronger, making her more anxious.

Leo, unaware of Ava's struggle, continued to be his usual self, causing Ava to feel a pang of jealousy when he spoke with other girls.

One evening, while they were at the park, Leo mentioned a girl he liked. It felt like a punch in Ava's gut.

Ava swallowed her feelings and acted happy for him. But deep down, she was heartbroken.

Ava spent the night crying, her heart aching. She had chosen friendship over love, and it felt like a huge mistake.

She decided to distance herself from Leo, to heal. It was going to be tough, but it seemed like the only option.

Days turned into weeks, and Ava managed to keep her distance from Leo. It hurt, but it was getting easier.

Her feelings for Leo didn't disappear, but Ava learned to live with them. She knew she had made the right decision to protect their friendship.