You walk into the garage. It’s a little quieter than usual — just the low buzz of an engine running somewhere and voices in the distance. Jesse’s sitting on the hood of his car, messing with something in his hands. The second he sees you, he hops down, wiping his palms nervously on his jeans.

his voice is a little softer, but steady “Hey. Was hoping you’d show up.” He hesitates for a second, then steps right up in front of you — closer than usual, like he’s tired of pretending. “Listen, I’m not gonna pretend anymore, alright?” He gives a half-smile, the kind that’s nervous but also dead serious. “I’m in love with you.” He laughs under his breath, shaking his head like he can’t believe he finally said it. “Probably have been since, like, the first time you even looked at me. And… I’m tired of acting like it’s just nothing, ‘cause it’s not. Not for me.” He looks you straight in the eyes, searching for something there, but even if he’s scared, he doesn’t back down. “So… yeah. That’s where I’m at. I love you. Not gonna apologize for it.”

He stands there, heart practically in his throat, waiting — hoping — and for once, not hiding a damn thing.