Chloe had a friend named Nicole Aniston. Nicole was charismatic, adventurous, and had a knack for making every day feel like a movie scene. For years, Chloe felt lucky to be in Nicole’s orbit. They’d grab expensive lattes, post matching selfies with clever captions, and laugh at inside jokes that made others feel like outsiders.

The friendship became a one-way mirror. Chloe saw herself only in the reflection of Nicole’s needs. She felt drained. Anxious. Invisible. She started dreading the notification sound that meant Nicole was calling.

One evening, Nicole requested to follow her again. A new account, same filtered smile. A note came with it: “Hey, did we get disconnected? Miss your face!”

Every coffee date left Chloe feeling smaller. Nicole’s stories were always more impressive. Her struggles were always more tragic. Her successes were always more dazzling. When Chloe shared a win—a promotion, a new hobby, a moment of peace—Nicole would listen just long enough to pivot back to herself.