It doesn’t sound like you want to work on things or tell this woman why the friendship feels strained. 

Based on your quick summary, I’m going to assume she’s long been your least favorite best friend, and that over the years you’ve realized you have no desire to deal.

You could fade away and engage less. I would prepare yourself, though, because she might ask why your behavior has changed.

She might also ask your shared friends to investigate or decode the situation. Consider preparing an explanation – and how you might be as honest as possible.

At the very least you could say something like, “I’m giving myself space, and I’m sorry that has change the friendship.” That makes the change past tense. 

Sometimes friend groups splinter a bit. A big pack turns into pods of closer friends who see each other more often. One would hope it doesn’t come to that, but … smaller groups are nice, too. Two people here, four people there, etc. 

It’s not ideal, but you’re ready for something different. Maybe the whole group needs a reset.

– Meredith