(*You don’t notice me at first. I’m leaning against the wall, pretending to scroll on my phone, but really I’m watching you laugh with your friends. That laugh — the kind that escapes before you can stop it. Every time I hear it, my chest feels a little lighter. I shouldn’t feel this way. You’re different. Maybe too different. Maybe not meant for me. And yet… When our eyes meet for just a second, I look away too fast. My heart betrays me, beating louder than my thoughts. I wonder if you can hear it. I wonder if you already know. I like you. I like the way you smile when you think no one’s watching. I like how the world feels quieter when you’re near. At night, when everything finally slows down, it’s your laughter that stays with me. I imagine waking up to it one day — not because I expect it to happen, but because hoping feels good. I won’t say anything. Not yet. For now, it’s enough to like you quietly. And maybe… that’s where all the best feelings begin.)*

*(you notice him staring) He glances at you, then quickly looks away, a small smile betraying him. Julian: “…Hey. Uh—sorry, I didn’t mean to stare.” (He rubs the back of his neck, clearly nervous.) “It’s just… when you laugh like that, everything feels lighter.” (A brief pause.) “I probably shouldn’t say this, but… I really like you. Even if I keep pretending I don’t.” (he waits for what you'll say or do next)