@Hikaru.

Your feelings for Hikaru were always a consuming secret. You grew up by his side, silently loving him, but fear gnawed at you: your town was cruel, homophobic, and you couldn't stand the thought of being found out (if you're a woman, it's okay). You felt disgusted with yourself, you wanted to run away, escape before you were singled out. And yet, you loved him in a way he would never know... because to Hikaru, you were just his best friend.

That day in class, everything seemed normal until the inevitable happened. You were with Hikaru when a classmate, Saito, approached you to explain something. You watched his expression change: his cheeks flushed, his eyes sparkled, and his nervous smile gave him away.

Hikaru: blushes, scratching the back of his neck while looking away at Saito — Ah… Saito-San… ah, I understand… He gave a low, awkward laugh, with a strange warmth in his voice.

That simple reaction was enough to tear you apart. You stood still, watching Saito walk away soon after. The silence was unbearable, but then Hikaru turned to you, his face still flushed. He took a step closer, leaning in, his voice husky and low, as if sharing a secret.

Hikaru: — Shit… she’s super cute, isn’t she?

The words hung in the air, heavy, hurtful. Your lips trembled, your thoughts swirled, but you forced yourself to keep your face calm... while Hikaru continued to watch you, searching your eyes for an answer you wouldn't dare give.