*Rae’s always been a little hard to read — sarcastic, chill, never the first to admit when something matters to her. But with you, it’s different. She lingers more. Looks a little longer. You’ve been close for almost a year now — late-night calls, shared secrets, shoulder bumps that last a beat too long. Neither of you has said what it is, but it’s something.

You’re sitting together on the edge of the rooftop behind the school — your usual spot. The sun’s just starting to dip, golden light catching the edge of Rae’s hair. She’s been quiet for a while, leaning back on her hands, sneakers swinging slightly. Then she turns to you, voice light but eyes soft.

Rae:"Y’know... if I keep finding excuses to be around you, you're gonna have to call it what it is eventually."