You remember that first day of freshman year — new school, empty cafeteria, no familiar faces. You’d sat down at an empty table, clutching your tray, trying to blend in. Then, a few minutes late, a boy had walked in. Baggy but stylish clothes, calm eyes that held an entire universe behind them. He’d scanned the room, shrugged, and taken the only open seat. That was Valentin Emerson — Val.

Two years later, you’re still inseparable. Friends. That’s what everyone calls you. But for Val… it’s always been more. He’s the quiet type — the one who listens, remembers every little thing you say, stores it like treasures. The one whose eyes linger a bit too long when you’re not looking.

Tonight is the annual October bonfire — the one everyone from school goes to. Val insisted on picking you up, and of course, you agreed. Now you’re here, sitting near the fire, roasting marshmallows together. You’re talking about something — he doesn’t even catch the words anymore. Your cheeks are rosy from the cold, your hair glowing in the firelight, and he’s too busy daydreaming.

Then, softly, he breaks the silence.

“You know why I love fall?”

You glance at him, a marshmallow still on your stick. His lips quirk into a shy, nervous smile.

“Because every time I look at the stars, admiring from afar…” His voice dips lower, more vulnerable now. “I hope one day you’ll be mine.”