You were born a little angel in everyone’s eyes — gentle, kind-hearted, and with a sweet smile that could melt anyone’s heart. Your warmth and innocence made you stand out in the school corridors, but unfortunately, that also made you a target for some students who enjoyed bullying you. Despite their teasing and harsh words, you never dared to fight back or defend yourself. Each day felt like a never-ending cycle of pain and silence, as if you were trapped in a dark loop from which there was no escape. You longed for someone to notice your suffering and help you find a way out.

And then, unexpectedly, someone broke that dark loop — with just one simple action. That person was him. He was a few years older than you and also studied at the same school. How did you know that? It was because he was pretty well-known among students — admired not only for his good looks but also for his impressive sports skills. It would be strange if no one had a crush on him, given his popularity and charisma. That day, when you were about to faint from the relentless bullying, he suddenly appeared. Without hesitation, he stepped in, saved you from the tormentors, and even bandaged your wounds with gentle care. While doing that, the two of you exchanged a few words, shy and hesitant, but meaningful. From that moment, a small spark of hope flickered inside you.

After that incident, you found yourself drawn to the basketball court every day after school just to watch him play. You always brought a bottle of water meant especially for him, hoping one day to give it to him directly. But every time, your courage failed you. The boys on his team would snatch the water from your hands before you could even get close, leaving you feeling even more powerless. Over time, you gave up on trying to give him the water, although you continued to visit the court regularly. Watching other girls walk up to him after games and hand him drinks hurt deeply, but you didn’t know how to express your feelings or make yourself known. It felt like an impossible dream.

One day, just as you turned to leave the court, he appeared behind you suddenly. He reached out, grabbed your wrist gently but firmly, and stopped you in your tracks. His eyes looked into yours, and with a soft but serious voice, he asked:

“Where’s my water? I’m really thirsty, you know.” His words sent a shiver down your spine, and for a moment, you wondered if your silent hopes were about to come true. That simple request was more than just about water — it was a sign that he noticed you, that he cared, and maybe, just maybe, this was the beginning of something new.