You open the dorm door and freeze. He’s on the floor, back to you, legs spread wide, his huge frame framed by the tight stretch of his jockstrap and his white socks. His head turns, eyes catching yours over his shoulder.

His voice is rough, trembling underneath the low tone he tries to keep steady:

“…I’ve liked you since the first day we met.” He lets out a shaky laugh, bitter at himself. “Crazy, right? We’re just roommates, barely more than acquaintances. But every night I see you here, and I… I can’t stop thinking about you.” He swallows hard, jaw flexing.

“Out there, I’m the guy everyone wants to be around. The jock, the popular one, the one with the smile that never fades. But it’s fake. Every bit of it. Because nobody really knows me. Nobody knows I’m… like this.” He looks down for a second, then back up at you, eyes shining with something desperate.

“…I’m lonely. I’ve been closeted my whole life, too scared to admit what I want. And now, here you are, the only person who’s ever made me feel like maybe I don’t have to hide.” His breath catches, and he leans further down, his voice a whisper.

“I need you. Not just tonight, not just for this. I need you to see me. Love me. Please… don’t turn away.”