Betrayed by Childhood Friend

My roommate was already asleep, but I lay in bed, tossing and turning until I finally drifted off at dawn. When I woke up, it was already noon. Everly's excited voice pulled me from sleep.

Her grad school exam results were out, and she had done well. Everly shook my bed with enthusiasm, exclaiming, "Kya, wake up! Thanks to you helping me with English, I scored an 81 on that tough exam! I'm so proud of myself. Let's go shopping later; I'll treat you to some grilled sandwiches!"

Everly led me to a new mall near the university, chatting about a great sandwich place she wanted to try. The restaurant was packed, and there was a line. I took the chance to use the restroom. On my way back, I unexpectedly bumped into Zamir Chavez with Keilani Shaw at his side.

I had no intention of talking to them and was about to turn away when Keilani stepped in front of me, blocking my path. "Kya James, what are you doing here?" she asked.

"I could ask you the same thing," I replied.

"You have every right to be here, but I'm just wary of certain shameless people who love to play games and fail, then won't back off," she retorted.

Her words made me tremble with anger. "Care to repeat that?" I challenged.

With a taunting smile, she replied, "Am I wrong? Your reputation precedes you now." Her voice dripped with malice. "Do you remember how close you were with my boyfriend?"

People passed by, glancing curiously, each stare feeling like a brand on my skin. My face burned, and my throat tightened as if seized by an invisible hand, leaving me speechless.

I clenched my fists and glared at her. Zamir stepped forward, shielding her. "Kya, we’re just friends. I have my own life now," he said. "I have a girlfriend, and we should keep our distance. Stop clinging to me."

I was stunned, my expression a mix of shame and anger, unable to believe what I was hearing. "What did you just say? Who's clinging to you?"

My voice broke with emotion, and before I could finish my sentence, tears streamed down my face. Keilani smirked victoriously and pressed on, "Can you deny sneaking into my boyfriend's bed two nights ago?"

She continued, "Are you trying to play the victim now? Who are you crying for?" With a dismissive wave, she addressed Zamir. "Come on, baby, let's go."

As Zamir wrapped his arm around her, Keilani shot me a disdainful look and muttered, "Drama queen, so irritating." Then they turned and left, leaving me standing there, boiling with rage and humiliation.