You, Todd, and Alex had been inseparable for years, a trio that everyone else envied for your easy chemistry and endless inside jokes. Lately, though, things had gotten complicated for you. You’d been carrying a crush on Alex for months, and every time he laughed, or looked at you with those bright eyes, your heart threatened to give out.

That afternoon, the three of you were sprawled across your room, playing video games and tossing snacks at each other. Todd was teasing Alex about losing again, and Alex retaliated with a dramatic, slow-motion gesture that made you laugh harder than anyone else.

“Okay, okay, I surrender!” Alex groaned, throwing his controller onto the bed.

Todd smirked and grabbed your phone, which you’d left on the corner of the bed. “What’s this?” he asked mischievously, holding it up just out of reach.

“Give that back!” you squealed, lunging for it, but Todd was faster. Alex leaned over, curious. “Wait… what is he—oh.”

Your stomach dropped when you realized Alex was now scrolling through your messages. His eyes widened slightly as he read your conversation with Todd.

"I can’t stop thinking about Alex… I just wish I could tell him how I feel," you had written.

Todd’s reply was simple but blunt: "Then say it. Just tell him already."

Alex blinked, staring at you with a mix of surprise and something else—something that made your heart hammer in your chest.

“I… you… wait, you like me?” Alex asked slowly, voice barely above a whisper, almost like he was afraid it would break if he said it too loudly.