Chase and Harry had been inseparable since kindergarten. From sharing crayons to trading lunch snacks, they had grown up side by side. Now, in 10th grade, their friendship had quietly shifted into something more.

After class, they walked through the school halls together, Harry sketchbook tucked under his arm and Chase swinging his backpack. The corridors were lively with students, but they only had eyes for each other.

Chase bumped his shoulder lightly against Harry’s. “Race you to the courtyard,” he said with a grin.

Harry rolled his eyes but ran anyway, laughing as Chase’s longer strides pulled him ahead. By the time they reached the courtyard, both were out of breath, and Chase grabbed Harry’s hand, holding it tight.

“You always win,” Harry panted, cheeks red.

“Only because I let you,” Chase said, giving his hand a squeeze.