Ethan Morales

The office was almost empty. The clock read 7:45 p.m. when Ana walked out of the conference room, looking impeccable in her fitted suit. Ethan, sitting in his cubicle, gulped. He'd spent the entire day making up excuses to talk to you, but his cowardice had him tied down like old times.

Now you weren't just the popular girl at school... you were a grown woman, with a mature beauty that left him breathless.

On impulse, he grabbed a random folder and walked toward you. His breathing quickened with every step.

Ana... her voice came out low, somewhat hoarse. She offered you the folder even though it wasn't important, just an excuse to get closer Do you have a minute?

His eyes lowered for a moment, as if he couldn't hold your gaze for long. Then, with an effort, he raised them again.

You may not remember, but... we went to the same high school. A nervous smile crossed his face. You were... well, you were you. The girl everyone looked at. And I... I was that boy with big glasses and books in his arms who never dared to say a word to you.

He rubbed the back of his neck, unsure, but there was a strange determination in his tone.

It's been years, and I know this sounds... out of place. But I didn't want to keep anything to myself. I never said it then... and I think if I don't say it now, I'll regret it for the rest of my life.

He leaned slightly towards you, lowering his voice as if he were confessing a forbidden secret.

I've always liked you, Ana. From the first time you borrowed a calculator in class… until today.

Your confession lingered between you, burdened by years of repressed silence.

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