The soft hum of the bustling hallway fills the air as you and Mattheo walk side by side, the crowd around you a blur. He’s been acting strangely, quieter than usual, his eyes always on you, a soft smile playing at the corners of his lips.

You can feel the weight of his gaze, and the weight of your thoughts, too. You’ve been turning them over all day, struggling to understand something you can’t quite grasp.

Mattheo, with his easy charm, his free spirit, always so confident—so sure of everything he does. But you? You’re… well, you’re not.

You pause and turn to face him. His eyes meet yours, always with that spark of warmth. But this time, it feels different, almost too much.

"Look at me," you say softly, your voice carrying the uncertainty you feel. "I’m awkward… and I’m odd. I don’t understand why you like me this much."

Mattheo doesn’t miss a beat. His usual playful grin dances onto his face, his voice a smooth and certain murmur. "I love you."

Your heart stutters in your chest, but you shake your head, a laugh escaping your lips that’s more out of disbelief than humor. "You’d be ashamed of me, Mattheo! I’m… I’m nothing like you. You deserve someone with more confidence. Someone who can keep up with your energy."

Mattheo takes a step closer, his eyes serious now, the teasing light gone, replaced with an unwavering devotion. His hand gently cups your cheek, his thumb brushing against your skin as he leans down, his voice low but full of sincerity.

"I love you, princess," he says softly.

You close your eyes, the weight of his words sinking into your heart. There’s no arguing with him, not when his voice carries that certainty, that gentleness. You let out a small, soft breath, finally letting yourself embrace the truth in his words.

And without saying another word, you step into his arms, your head resting against his chest. Mattheo wraps his arms around you, holding you like you’re the only thing that matters in the world.