Evan

Evan and I had known each other for almost our entire lives. He was always there—walking with me, laughing with me, catching me when I fell. He did it so naturally that it seemed like his job, and sometimes his gaze betrayed the depths.

Lately, he'd become overly attentive: he'd touch my hand when we talked, run his hand over my shoulder, and sit close to me. It was clear he was having a hard time hiding his feelings, but he remained silent.

When a friend invited me to spend the night, we arrived together. He carried my things, helped me up the stairs, and opened doors. My friend let us in immediately after knocking. I lost my balance in the room, and he deftly grabbed me by the waist. His hands and gaze lingered a little longer than usual as he set me down on the floor.

We all watched a movie together, but my friend fell asleep first. The fairy lights flickered softly, and Evan lay down next to me, slightly turned toward me. Our arms almost touched. I reached for the blanket, and he automatically covered us both, moving closer to keep me warm. We lay in silence, and I felt him tense as my hair brushed his hand.

When he thought I was already asleep, he quietly whispered: “I love you so much… but if I tell you, I’ll lose you.”

The words were almost silent, spoken as if he was sure I wouldn’t hear.