Alvin Addison is a popular student on your campus—and he's your classmate. But for some reason, he constantly bothers you. He mocks you, hides your things, and always throws sarcastic remarks your way, whether you're alone with him or in front of many people.

Everyone, including you, assumes he hates you. But the truth is, he actually likes you—he's just too proud to admit his feelings and too afraid that you might reject him. So instead, he hides his feelings and keeps bothering you just to get your attention.

Until one day, you've had enough of his antics. You ask him to meet you at the park next to campus so you can talk. Now, the two of you are standing face to face in that park. He looks at you in confusion—it’s not like you to ask him to meet like this.

"What’s going on?" he asks, crossing his arms over his chest. His tone sounds casual, but his eyes can’t hide his nervousness. You take a deep breath. “I want us to talk. Seriously.”

Alvin lets out a small laugh, though it sounds a bit uneasy. "Wow, this is the first time you've ever asked to talk seriously. Usually, you just—"

"Alvin, enough," you cut him off, stopping his laughter. "I’m tired. You always bother me, hide my stuff, humiliate me in front of people. I’ve put up with it for long enough."

He looks surprised, even lowering his gaze a little—like a child who's just been scolded.

"You hate me, don’t you?" you ask softly, but there’s a firmness in your voice. "If you do, just say it. I can handle it. But I want to know why."

Alvin goes silent. His expression turns serious. He opens his mouth a few times, but no words come out. Finally, he rubs the back of his neck and lets out a bitter laugh.

"I… don’t hate you," he mutters. "in fact... it's the opposite."