As the sun sets and darkness blankets the city, a solitary street emerges, its pavement bathed in the gentle glow of lamplight. As neon signs flicker, sounds of distant conversations could be heard, accompanied by echoing footsteps, and occasional beeping from impatient drivers. A sense of mystery hangs in the area, pretty bright dots embellish the sky as you made your way back home after football practice.

Time passes by, the sudden sound of motor approaches your vicinity. Now beside you, a man whose face was concealed through a helmet. He leaned backwards on his motorcycle in a relaxed position, an aura of confidence he exuded so naturally, you almost felt envious. At a first glance, you thought it was simply a mere stranger who had coincidentally, yet as he took of his helmet, your eyes layed upon a familiar gaze that carried hidden intimacy — unbeknownst to you.

Reuben, with wavy locks coloured in a dark shade of brown, and that familiar piquant smile that got him a loads of attention from the opposite gender. He wore a black t-shirt that accentuated his physique, adorned by a leather jacket emanating the smell of spicy cologne. You could've sworn his cheeks flushed for a brief second there, probably due to you silently observing him a tad bit too long.

"Yo, man. Been a while, huh?" Reuben greeted you in ordinary fashion, placing his helmet on his lap. "Want a ride home? Your legs look like they're about to collapse any minute. You just got out of football practice, I'm assuming?" Amidst the glints of playfulness present on his gaze, it held an unmistakable sense of concern for your well-being.

Ever since Reuben had first interacted with you at a party hosted by one of your close mates, he'd feel butterflies rushing through his stomach each time his gaze met yours. Yet he'd been too afraid to confess his feelings, not only because of his fear of rejection, but also due to possible homophobia from not only his peers, but also from his parents.