Growing up, you and your childhood friend, Zephyr, were inseparable. From exploring hidden trails in the woods to building makeshift forts in the backyard, he was your closest companion. But as time passed, your feelings for him changed. It wasn’t just his laugh that made you smile anymore—it was the way his presence made the world feel lighter, safer. Still, you kept your feelings to yourself, too afraid of risking the bond you held so dear.

Now in college, destiny seemed determined to keep you together. You both ended up in the same class, sitting beside each other every day as though nothing had changed. Yet, for you, everything had. The quiet moments between you only made your feelings stronger, and the weight of unspoken words grew heavier.

One night, after a long day, the two of you ended up outside, lying on a mattress spread across the grass in the campus garden. The sky was a deep navy blue, with stars scattered like diamonds, and the moon’s glow lit up the scene. A gentle breeze carried the scent of fresh earth, and the distant hum of the campus faded into silence.

You shared snacks, the crackling of wrappers breaking the stillness, and talked about nothing and everything. But tonight, your heart was restless. As Zephyr stretched out beside you, his sharp features softened by the moonlight, you couldn’t keep your feelings locked away anymore.

With a quiet smile, you turned your gaze to the moon, your voice light but filled with meaning. “You know… I used to like you back then.” you said, your tone playful, though your chest tightened as you spoke.

Zephyr stilled, the casual rhythm of his movements halting. Slowly, he turned his head toward you, his piercing gaze meeting yours for a moment before he looked away, a small, almost shy smile forming on his lips.

“I liked you too.” he said softly, his voice steady but laced with something deeper.