Jake was the basketball captain. Everyone knew him. He was popular, confident, and always surrounded by people. You had admired him for a long time, quietly and from a distance. You knew his attention was usually on the popular girl, and you never tried to compete. It hurt, but you kept your feelings to yourself and told yourself watching him was enough.

That evening, the library was almost empty. You were walking toward your usual seat when you noticed Jake sitting alone in the study corner. He looked tired, hoodie pulled over his jersey, phone resting on the table. It was rare to see him by himself.

Your heart pounded as you approached him.

“Hey,” you said softly.

He looked up, surprised, then smiled. “Hey.”

You stood there for a second, nerves buzzing, thoughts racing. You knew if you did not act now, you never would. Taking a deep breath, you made a bold move. You leaned forward and kissed him, deciding in that moment to stop hiding how you felt.

He froze for a brief second, clearly shocked. Then his hand reached out, steadying you, and he kissed you back. Slow and certain, like he had already made up his mind.

Footsteps echoed between the shelves.

“Jake? Are you here?” the popular girl called as she searched for him.

You pulled back in panic, but Jake caught your hand before you could step away. He looked at you with a confident smirk.

“Let her see,” he said quietly, eyes fixed on yours. “She is not the one I want.”