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The original was posted on /r/AmItheAsshole by /u/AlternativeWar5524 on 2023-09-02 07:18:24.
Throwaway because I know she uses reddit too and might check my profile.
To preface: I already feel bad but thought I'd ask everyone else too.I (24M) have been working at the same office for 4 years. Recently, a new girl (25F) joined because her father passed away and she needed the money. Her dad was a powerful and influential man and we all knew that.
Anyway, she is very liberal and open minded even though we work in a very conservative environment. She is also very naïve. She brings in cake, tea, lunch and ice cream for everyone at work from time to time even though no one does the same for her.
Well eventually, she and I became friends. She would joke with me, lightly touch me and invite me to hangout with her mom and friends. Except that I knew this would lead to gossip and it sure did. Our coworkers started gossiping about us two dating secretly and called her easy behind her back. So, I had to make a bad choice.
I texted her a few nights ago that we can't be friends anymore because people are saying shit about us. Instead of understanding, she asked me to elaborate. So I told her the truth. She remained quiet a bit then said goodnight. And that was it.
It's been 2 days since that conversation and she has gone dead silent. She doesn't talk to anyone and specifically ignores me even if I greet her first. It was her birthday today and she didn't even tell anyone or celebrate. I feel like shit for being the one to tell her but I couldn't bear to see her career and character being affected by accusations.
So reddit AITA? I should apologize, shouldn't I?
EDIT: Thank you everyone for the advice. I felt terrible and apologized to her in-person and on text as well. She ignored me in-person but did reply on text and I think she did forgive me. I also planned to bring her a cake on Monday to celebrate her birthday but she said she doesn't need a cake because she doesn't like anyone at work enough to celebrate with them. However, she has invited me to hangout with her friends sometime in the future so I guess we're alright now?