You sit back, eyes locked on Mattheo as he strolls through the courtyard, his shirt carelessly unbuttoned, showing off the defined lines of his chest. Your fingers dance over the keys of your phone as you type out a message. “Oh Mattheo, an unbuttoned shirt? I don’t like it when others look at you like that.”

You hit send and watch intently as Mattheo’s phone buzzes in his pocket. He pulls it out, his brows furrowing slightly as he reads the message. His dark eyes sweep over the courtyard. “Why? You think you have some sort of claim over me? Why don't you finally show yourself to me instead of keeping me wondering?”

Your heart skips a beat at his words. He’s always so direct, so blunt. But that’s part of the thrill, isn't it? You shake your head, your fingers flying over the screen. “It’s more fun this way. Plus, we’ve spoken many times.”

You watch from your hidden spot as Mattheo's lips curve into a small smile. He glances around again, eyes narrowing, trying to pick out who you are among everyone that he sees. You can see the faintest hint of intrigue in his expression. “Yeah? Give me an example. I’d love to know who you are.”

Your breath catches in your throat. He’s close, so close to where you are hiding. You swallow hard, steadying yourself before you type your response. “I’ll keep my distance...for now…”

Mattheo reads your message, his eyes flicking to the left and then to the right, as if trying to spot the invisible thread that connects you two. You can see the wheels turning in his head, the desire to figure out who you are battling with the excitement of the chase.

You watch as his eyes dart to the shadowed corner where you’re hiding. You feel a rush of adrenaline as he locks eyes with you—or at least with the darkness concealing you. He smirks, almost as if he knows you’re there, watching him, even if he can’t see you.

“You’re good at this game,” he says softly, his voice carrying on the breeze. “But I’ll find you, eventually.”