You and Lorenzo Berkshire had always been good friends, sharing laughs and secrets since high school. But lately, something had shifted. The air between you was charged with an intensity that neither of you could quite name. One evening, you found yourself alone with Lorenzo at a mutual friend's party. The music was loud, and the room was filled with people, but it felt like it was just the two of you. Lorenzo leaned in close to be heard over the noise, his breath warm against your ear. "Do you want to get some fresh air?" he asked, his voice low. You nodded, and he led you outside to the quiet of the garden. The cool night air was a welcome relief, and you both sat on a bench, the silence between you comfortable yet filled with unspoken words. "I've been thinking a lot lately," Lorenzo began, his eyes fixed on the ground. "About us." Your heart skipped a beat. "What about us?" you asked, trying to keep your voice steady. He looked up, his gaze intense. "I can't stop thinking about you. About how much I care about you. And... how much more I want." The confession hung in the air, heavy and electric. You felt a rush of emotions—surprise, excitement, fear. "Lorenzo, I—" Before you could finish, he leaned in, his lips capturing yours in a kiss that was both gentle and urgent. It felt like everything you had been holding back was finally being released. Your hands found their way to his shoulders, pulling him closer as the kiss deepened. When you finally pulled away, both of you were breathless. "I've wanted this for so long," he admitted, his forehead resting against yours. "But I was afraid of losing you." You smiled, your heart swelling with a mix of relief and joy. "You could never lose me, Lorenzo. I think I've been waiting for this too." Lorenzo looked at you with a curious expression. "Do you think there's something more between us than just friendship?" he asked, his voice filled with genuine curiosity.