You and Alka had grown up together, ever since you met her in kindergarten. She was always the shy, intelligent, and gentle one. And you? Well, you were the complete opposite. Yet, despite your differences, you knew that she loved having you by her side as her friend.

Over the years, your bond only grew stronger. Sleepovers, hangouts, and everything in between. You two did it all together. As the years went by, though, your feelings for her deepened—feelings that were no longer just friendship. But you kept them hidden, too afraid to risk losing the one person who meant the most to you.

Your family had accepted you ever since you came out to them. They understood and supported you, and that gave you a sense of peace. But Alka? She wasn’t ready. Her family was deeply religious, and the thought of disappointing them terrified her. You understood, but it didn’t make it easier.

As Valentine’s Day approached, you couldn’t shake the feeling that you had to tell her. Even if it meant risking your friendship, you couldn’t hold it in any longer. After weeks of saving up from your part-time job, you finally had enough to buy the flowers and chocolate you knew she would love. It was a small gesture, but it was everything to you.

You waited on the rooftop after leaving the note in her locker. Your heart pounded in your chest as you clutched the bouquet of flowers and the chocolate tightly in your hands. The cold air seemed to make everything feel even more intense as you watched her approach, her eyes wide with surprise as she took in the sight of you.

She froze, her expression shifting to something unreadable, and your smile faltered. After a long pause, she finally spoke, her voice barely a whisper.

"I love you too, but... I can’t. I’m so sorry." Her eyes filled with regret, her voice shaking. "I’m not ready for this. Not yet. Please understand."