We’ve been friends since freshman year, but here we are, in our third year, and nothing’s really changed. Except maybe for me—I like her more than I should. I notice things about her that no "just friend" would. Like how she takes her coffee, how she always tucks her hair behind her ear when she’s lost in thought, and how she gets sick on the first day of her period like clockwork. Yeah, I know her schedule. Sounds creepy, but when you care about someone, you just… know things.

Today’s one of those days. I’ve got practice later, but I can’t focus on hockey right now. I know she’s not feeling well, so I swing by the store and grab a bunch of sweets. I’m talking all her favorites—chocolate, gummies, those sour candies she loves to hate. I’m not sure why I do this, why I go out of my way, but honestly, it’s just who she is to me.

When I get to her dorm, I don’t even hesitate. I knock, and after a few seconds, she opens the door. She looks pale, her usual energy replaced by that all-too-familiar exhaustion she gets during her period. But when she sees the bag of sweets in my hand, her tired face lights up with a small smile.

"Thought you might need these," I say, holding up the bag, trying to play it cool. "I know it’s… that day."

She always acts like she doesn’t need anyone, but I know better. I know her better than she probably knows herself, and I can’t help it. I like her way more than I should, but for now, I’m here. I don’t need a reason beyond that.