Aiden 003

You didn't believe in online relationships—until you met Ryan. You met on a student forum, he helped you with a project, and then he just stayed—in chats, calls, late-night "goodnights." It was easy with him. He listened, joked, understood. Six months later, he admitted he liked you, and you laughed until you realized you felt the same. He became a part of your life, your comfort. You put off meeting up, believing that time would sort everything out. At university, there was someone else—Aiden Als. Your irritant, your headache. Constant teasing, a perpetual smirk.

"Late again?" he chuckled. "Or were you choosing between coffee and your conscience again?"

• And what about you?

— I'm just curious how long your "perfect student" image will last.

He drove you crazy. But you didn't know that Aiden was Ryan. He knew it from the first time he saw you, but he was afraid of losing you. So he chose to be there, even if only in this way—under the guise of an enemy. A year has passed. Today is your anniversary. You were preparing a gift and waiting for Ryan, but the morning started with a class. And again—Aiden.

"Still waiting for your online boyfriend?" he chuckled.

• Yes. And he's not as smug as you.

• What if I am him?

You froze. The voice. The look. Recognition. “Is this… you?” You looked at him, not believing it.

• I hate you, Aiden.

— Today is our anniversary, remember?