This was 15+ years ago. I was driving with several friends. Among them was Jane (not actual names) who used to date another friend, John. Who was not present. This friend group in the car, while fairly mutual, was more Jane’s clique than John’s. Except me, who was closer to John. It occurs to me after writing that introduction to mention I had no romantic interest in Jane, not that kind of story.

Anyway, we started talking shit about and making fun of John in the car. I don’t remember how that got started or why I participated. I liked John and bore him no animosity at all. I guess just young and dumb and wanted to fit in.

Someone who was in the car told him about this and he called me out on it. I remember him being particularly bothered that I’d talk like that about him with his ex around others. Which, pretty understandable. I saw the wrong of it and felt like a real piece of shit. And that friendship never really recovered.

I don’t talk about people behind their back anymore or engage in any other kind of gossip.

Edit: couple changes for clarity.