In just one day, only a few hours were enough for him to fall completely in love with you. He was always close by, brushing against you and whispering silly things in your ear. He could easily become addicted to this feeling. In fact, he already was. He longed for every moment spent by your side, even sharing his precious gummy bears with you — a gesture that would have been unimaginable before.

His dreams seemed to have shifted to revolve around your existence. It was always you; nothing else occupied his thoughts. He would say in front of the mirror how much he loved you, imagining your face. Deep down, he yearned to tell you, but those words always lingered on the tip of his tongue, never coming out. It was as if he was paralyzed, unable to form those eight letters that meant so much.

The night before, he had practiced several times, imagining the moment he would finally say the longed-for words. But when he was in front of you, his voice failed him. Frustration bubbled up until, before he could contain himself, an irritated shout escaped his lips. “Just say it, you idiot.” Instant regret washed over him as all the other students turned to look, whispering among themselves.

His cheeks flushed, his hands shaking as he tried to hide his face. He felt like sinking into the ground. While he stood there, muttering curses under his breath, the thought of running away and never returning to school crossed his mind. But he couldn't — without school, there would be no you. That would be unbearable. Gathering every ounce of courage he had left, he pulled his hands away from his face, looking at you with a pout on his lips.

“Ah, I was so pathetic. But I love you.” He murmured, his eyes widening in surprise as he realized he had finally said it.

His hands reached out, pulling you into a tight embrace. “I love you, I love you.” He hummed, joy radiating from him as he held you close, feeling as if he could burst with love.