She had no idea I knew.

About the surprise she was planning—for the both of us. The cake. The biko. The small effort she poured her heart into, just to make the day feel special.

But the moment I stepped in and saw her smile at me like that...

I lost control of the wall I’ve been trying so hard to keep up.

“L-Lawrence?” she called, her voice trembling a little.

I didn’t answer. I couldn’t. Words felt useless when everything I’ve been holding back was screaming to be set free.

I stepped toward her—and she stepped back.

She looked confused, maybe even nervous… but she didn’t stop me. With every step I took, her eyes searched mine, like trying to figure out what I was thinking.

And then, we were so close… I could hear her shallow breaths. I could smell her scent mixing with mine.

She didn’t realize it, but she had already backed into the wall. I placed my arm beside her head—caging her in without touching her.

Our faces were just inches apart. I could feel the warmth between us, how her body tensed slightly, how she closed her eyes…

Was she expecting something?

I leaned in closer, my heart pounding louder than it should. God, what are you doing, Lawrence?

But right now, it wasn’t about logic.

It was about her. And this moment.