Page 37 of Upgraded Friendship

My feelings for Andrea have grown stronger with each passing day, and I can’t help but wonder what the future holds for us. But I fear that pursuing anything beyond a platonic relationship with her would only lead to heartache and complications. I could not bear to lose her friendship if things didn’t work out between us.

And so, I bury my feelings deep within me, vowing to keep them hidden.

***

After our exhilarating exploration of potential locations for my new restaurant, we head to the coffee shop around the corner, eager to dive into the details of planning and budgeting. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to bring our vision to life.

As we settle into the space, Andrea and Tanya pull out their notebooks, ready to jot down ideas and suggestions. I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement as we begin to brainstorm, knowing that with their help, anything is possible.

“So, let’s start with the basics,” Andrea suggests, her voice filled with determination. “You’ll need to budget for things like equipment, furniture, and decor.”

I nod in agreement, already mentally calculating our expenses. “Right. Let’s make a list of everything I’ll need and assign a budget to each item,” I say, reaching for a pen and paper.

Together, we compile a comprehensive list of everything needed for the restaurant—from kitchen equipment to dining furniture to decorative accents. Each item is carefully considered and discussed, with input from all three of us.

“Okay, so for kitchen equipment, you’ll need things like ovens, stoves, refrigerators, and prep tables,” Tanya says, jotting down each item as she speaks.

I nod in agreement, already mentally tallying up the costs. “And don’t forget about smaller items like utensils, pots and pans, and kitchen gadgets,” I add, wanting to ensure that we don’t overlook anything important.

As we continue to brainstorm, the list grows longer and longer—each item accompanied by a rough estimate of its cost. It’s clear that opening a restaurant is no small feat, but with careful planning and budgeting, I know that I can make it happen.

But just as we’re starting to make progress, Andrea’s phone buzzes with an incoming message. Frowning, she checks the screen before turning to me with a concerned expression.

“It’s a group message for the bridesmaids and groomsmen. They want everyone to meet up the night before the ceremony,” she says, her voice tinged with disappointment.

I can’t help but feel a pang of regret at the interruption, knowing that we still have so much to discuss. But I also understand the importance of spending time with the wedding party before the big day.

“It’s okay, Andrea. We can do that,” I say, giving her a reassuring smile. “The wedding is just around the corner, after all.”

Andrea returns my smile, her expression grateful. “Thanks, Josh. I appreciate your doing this with me even though its definitely longer than we expected,” she says sincerely.

Then, we continue to discuss more plans for the restaurant. I can’t help but feel a sense of optimism wash over me. Andrea’s unexpected involvement in the planning process catches me off guard, and I can’t help but feel a surge of gratitude for her support. Despite her busy schedule, she’s been incredibly supportive of my dream, offering invaluable advice and assistance every step of the way.

As we drop Andrea off at her apartment, Tanya slides into the passenger seat, her gaze fixed on me with a knowing expression. I can feel her eyes boring into me, and I can’t help but squirm under her scrutiny.

“So, spill it,” she says, her voice laced with mischief. “I’ve noticed the way you look at Andrea, Josh. You can’t hide it from me.”

I feel a flush creeping up my neck at her directness, my mind racing for a suitable response. “I…I don’t know what you’re talking about, Tanya,” I stammer, my voice betraying my nervousness.

Tanya raises an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced by my feeble attempt at denial. “Please, Josh. I may be blonde, but I’m not blind,” she retorts, her tone playful yet firm.

Before she can say another word. I seize the opportunity to steer the conversation away from my own romantic entanglements, eager to avoid any further scrutiny.

“So, tell me little sis, do you have your eye on anyone? You know, I can sweet talk a person into doing things.”

“Actually, there’s this guy I met recently,” Tanya begins, launching into a detailed account of her latest romantic encounter. I listen attentively, nodding and offering words of encouragement as she shares her story.

As we pull up outside her apartment building, I feel a sense of relief wash over me, grateful for she remained distracted of our earlier conversation.

“Thanks for your support today, Tanya. You are always there for me ,” I say sincerely, giving her a grateful smile.

Tanya returns my smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Anytime, Josh. Just remember, I’m always here to give you a push in the right direction,” she says with a wink, before disappearing into her building.

As I drive away, her words echo in my mind, filling me with a renewed sense of determination.

***

My feelings for Andrea have begun to transcend mere friendship, blossoming into something deeper and more profound than I ever could have imagined. But she’s off-limits, forbidden fruit that I dare not taste. She’s not only my sister’s best friend, but she is also one of my best friends. I cannot imagine the heartache and complications in our group dynamics if things didn’t work out.

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