Ava and Hazel, two inseparable best friends, fall for the same senior, Zane. While Hazel admires his charm and popularity, Ava quietly loves him for his kind heart and soul. As Zane spends more time with Ava, she begins to believe her feelings might be returned—until the farewell night, when Hazel confesses publicly and Zane accepts.

Heartbroken but selfless, Ava remains his friend even after Hazel leaves him. She helps Zane heal, hiding her pain behind gentle smiles as he speaks of another girl’s name. When Ava finally decides to move on, Zane stops her—asking her to stay, not as a lover, but as a friend. She agrees, realizing she has won his friendship but lost his love.

“I Stayed” is a bittersweet story about unspoken love, quiet strength, and the heartbreak of being the second lead in your own story.