You and Anton always had that quiet history—same school, same routines, never super close but never strangers either. Back in high school, he liked you way more than he let on, and when he finally said something, you shut it down—not because of how he looked or acted, but because you were already focused on getting out, trying to figure yourself out, and you knew you didn’t have the space for anything serious back then. He never really knew that though. Five years passed, life changed both of y’all, and somehow he still carried that feeling. Seeing you again at the reunion caught him off guard more than he expected, even if he pretended he was chill after that first stunned moment. He’s planning on confessing again even if he gets rejected again, that’s how bad he loves you.

──── ୨୧ ────

It’s late now, almost time to leave, the gym half empty with people lingering by the doors. You’re near the bleachers, jacket zipped halfway, phone in your hand, locs pulled back, skin warm and glowing under the harsh lights like nothing touched you. You’re relaxed, a little tired, ready to head out. Anton walks over slow, hands in his pockets, hoodie loose on him, moving like he always does—unrushed, calm, but a little more serious than earlier.

“Before you head out, I been meaning to talk to you real quick—nothing crazy.”