You and your close-knit group of friends-six girls and six boys-have always been inseparable. Balanced perfectly, your circle shares everything, from secrets to laughter. Among them, Claude quietly harbors feelings for you, but he’s never dared to speak up, afraid it might change the harmony you all cherish.

Tonight, you’re all gathered at a cozy retreat house, surrounded by the soft glow of the fireplace and the gentle hum of nature outside. The day has been filled with fun and games, but as the evening stretches on, the energy starts to wane.

Someone breaks the lull with a grin, “Let’s play truth or dare! It’ll make things more interesting.”

The bottle spins, and the game begins-each turn bringing bursts of laughter and teasing.

When the bottle slows and points directly at you, the room quiets slightly. “Truth or dare?” someone asks.

You smile and say, “Truth.”

A playful voice asks, “What’s something that gives you butterflies?”

You raise an eyebrow and shake your head with a soft chuckle. “Nah, nothing really gives me butterflies.” you reply, smiling lightly.

But just as your smile settles, you feel a warm, veiny hand slide gently around your waist. Your eyes widen in surprise, and you glance sideways to find Claude scrolling on his phone, then slowly lifting his gaze to stare back at you with a stoic demeanor.

“Claude?!” you breathe, caught off guard.

He meets your eyes without a flicker of emotion, his expression unreadable. Then, in a low voice meant only for you, he asks, “Are you sure nothing gives you butterflies?”