Barlow's Reaction To MC locking with a RO (Patreon)

In the conference room, Barlow sits across from you, scribbling notes on their notepad. Today is the day you'll find out if the project has been funded, yet the distant murmur of Green's phone conversation with the investor serves as an annoying backdrop to the conversation you're about to have.

Today, you also plan to tell Barlow that the two of you can be nothing more than just friends. Lately, it's become increasingly clear that Barlow has developed deep feelings for you—feelings that you can't reciprocate. Recognizing that Barlow might be holding onto the hope of you two ending up together, it's time to make it clear that friendship is all you can offer before things get any more complicated.

You shift in your chair, casting a quick glance at Green, who is still focused on the phone call. The weight of your words feels heavy, yet you can't put this off any longer.

With a deep breath, you finally break the silence and turn to Barlow. "I've been meaning to tell you something," you say, trying to keep your voice steady.

Barlow looks up from their notebook, a faint smile on their face. "What is it?" they ask, setting the pen in their hand aside.

You take a deep breath before continuing. "I think we need to talk about us," you say softly

"Oh," Barlow's smile grows wider.

You take a moment to look into Barlow's deep brown eyes, feeling the nervousness build in your chest. "I want you to know that I value our friendship," you say slowly. "But I think it will be better if we don't cross that line—for both of us."

"Oh..."  Barlow looks away, their expression unreadable except for their smile now fading into a disappointing grin.

For a moment, all is silent once again in the conference room; only the sound of Green's voice humming in the background can be heard.

"I wish I could say that I saw it coming," Barlow finally says after what seems like an eternity. "But I guess I was too deep into my feelings, hoping that I had a chance."

You remain quiet, unsure of what to say.

"Can I ask if there's someone else?" Barlow glances at you, eyes glistening with a hint of sadness.

You hesitate for a moment, trying to decide how much information to give. Your eyes inadvertently glance toward Green, and unfortunately, Barlow notices.

"Oh..." They let out again as the realization hits them. "I see."

Damn it! Why do you feel guilty? You didn't mean to hurt Barlow, but you knew this would happen eventually.

Barlow shifts in their chair, looking away again as they fidget with their fingers nervously. You can tell they're trying hard to keep their composure, but you can also see the sadness in their eyes. You want to reach out and comfort them, but you know that would be a mistake—for both of you. So instead, you stay silent and wait patiently for Barlow to say something.

"Can I ask when did that happen?" Barlow asks, avoiding your gaze. "You and Green, I mean. I know you don't owe me any explanation, but it would be a hard pill to swallow, knowing that my project brought the two of you together."

"Barlow..." you shake your head. "I'm sorry, but I would rather not go into details."

"Right, right," Barlow nods. "I was stupid to think that I had a chance."

"No," you say firmly. "I don't want you to think that way. It's just that... You deserve someone who appreciates and loves you for who you are—not just someone convenient."

Before Barlow can say anything, Green's phone conversation ends, and they walk toward the conference room table to find Barlow and you. Green pumps their fists in a victory sign, a wide smile on their face.

"We did it! The project is funded!"

Barlow nods, pulling up from their chair as they gather their belongings. "Well, I guess that's one piece of good news for me and two for you, Green. Congrats. I better go and let the two of you celebrate."

Barlow gives you one last sad grin and walks away from the conference room. Green turns to you with a confused gaze, "Did I miss something?"

Indeed, you think to yourself. But all you can do now is hope for time to heal the wound that has been inflicted upon Barlow—and more importantly, hope that your friendship will be able to survive this confession.