Willow's fingers hovered over the keyboard as she debated how much to reveal. She didn't want to burden Emily with her problems, but she desperately needed someone to talk to.
Finally, she took a deep breath and typed out a response. "Hey, Em. I'm okay, just dealing with some family stuff. Can we talk tomorrow?"
Emily responded almost immediately. "Of course, Will! I'm here for you. Tomorrow sounds perfect."
Willow felt a wave of relief wash over her. She knew she could trust Emily with her secrets, and just knowing that someone was there to listen made her feel a little less alone.
The next day, Willow met Emily at their favorite coffee shop. They sat down at a quiet table in the back, and Emily immediately asked, "What's going on, Will? You can tell me anything."
Willow took a deep breath and let it all spill out – her parents' fights, the silences, the feeling of being lost and alone. Emily listened attentively, her eyes filled with compassion and understanding.
When Willow finished talking, Emily reached out and took her hand. "You're not alone, Will," she said softly. "I'm here for you, and we'll get through this together.