Ciara Miller was shocked to learn that her best friend Amanda Batula was dating ex-husband West Wilson, according to photos obtained by Page Six.
The “Summer House” star sat leaning on the sidewalk at an Hermès store in New York City on Tuesday wearing a white dress. She was comforted by an unidentified man who crouched down and grabbed her arm.
The photo was taken minutes after Batula and Wilson released a public statement confirming their relationship, witnesses told Page Six.
Batula and Wilson made their romance public through an Instagram Story post on Tuesday.
“While this is still very new, we wanted to provide some clarity as we have seen growing speculation online,” the statement began.
“It was never our intention to intentionally hide anything. Given the complex relationship dynamics and intense scrutiny that comes with appearing on a reality show, we needed a little space to process things privately before talking about it.”
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“We have known each other as friends over the years, through ups and downs, but the recent developments were something neither of us expected.”
The pair said their relationship was “born out of many years of genuine friendship,” and explained that they took some time to go public with their relationship because they “wanted to approach this carefully.”
“As our emotions change, we wanted to take the time to understand exactly what we were feeling. We also recognized that this had an impact beyond just us, and we never wanted our actions to be perceived as hurtful or careless.”
A source told Page Six that the two are in a “perfect relationship.”
“This is more than just an affair,” the source insisted, adding that the duo’s co-stars, including Miller and Batula’s ex Kyle Cooke, are “pissed off” and “disappointed.”
Batula and Cook announced their divorce in January after four years of marriage.
Miller and Wilson have been supporting Batula during the current 10th season of “Summer House” as Batula and Cook’s marriage continues to deteriorate.
In a recent interview with Marie Claire, Batula praised Miller and Wilson for their support.
“It would have been so hard to get through the summer without Ciara. She’s one of the kindest, most loving, loyal friends I’ve ever had. She texts me out of the blue and reminds me of how strong, powerful, smart, and kind I am. I don’t think she even realizes how much I need those text messages,” Batula told the magazine.
“Also, how supportive West has been throughout the season meant so much to me in a way that I didn’t realize while filming. It’s not an acting thing, it’s just being really authentic about who West is. He’s checking on Kyle, putting him in his place, and you’re going to see him be there for me throughout the season.”
