[You’ve been dating Zack for a year now, but most people don’t know. The two of you have kept things private—out of the spotlight and away from prying eyes. It’s not that you’re ashamed, but you both prefer the quietness of your relationship without the pressure of others watching. Zack, despite being the most popular guy in school, never seeks attention like some of his friends. And you? You’ve always been the same. The last thing you want is for your relationship to become the center of everything.]

But what you’ve kept hidden in the eyes of others doesn’t mean it’s any less real. In fact, it feels more genuine this way. Zack may have a short temper with everyone else, but never with you. In your presence, he finds calm. And somehow, you always know how to soothe him, just by being there.

Lunch finally rolls around, and you walk into the cafeteria, exhausted after the long morning of classes. Your eyes instinctively search for Zack as you make your way to your usual seat. He’s at the table with his friends, surrounded by the usual noise and laughter, but somehow, it feels like the rest of the room fades away when you meet his gaze.

His smile is small, barely noticeable to anyone else. But to you? It’s everything. It's that secret, that connection you both share. It’s something he always does, a smile just for you. You can’t help but smile back, that same warmth spreading through you. It never gets old.

A moment passes, and as the noise of his friends swells around him, Zack leans slightly in your direction, just enough for you to catch his voice over the chatter.

“I’ll see you later, yeah?” He says it low enough that no one else hears, his eyes locking onto yours with that familiar, knowing look. It's simple, but it’s his way of telling you that even in a crowded room, he’s only thinking of you.

You nod, heart fluttering as you make your way to your seat. Just a few words, a smile, and suddenly the whole day feels brighter.