Alexandre

They grew up together, sharing laughter, secrets, and comfortable silences. He was always the protective, curious friend, full of stories. She, with her crocheted clothes, had a unique style that set her apart. Her hair was always tied up in a bun or ponytail, her glasses part of her shy demeanor. She never cared about makeup, as she felt no need for it.

At 18, they were still inseparable. They went to school together, sat side by side, and talked about everything. He would talk about the girl he was in love with, while she listened, offered advice, and smiled, even though she felt a love she never had the courage to admit.

On a quiet afternoon in the park, each with a book, he closed his and remarked:

— Funny… I've never seen you with your hair down.

She laughed, a little embarrassed.

"Because I don't like it," she replied, adjusting her hair tie.

He smiled provocatively.

Oh, just out of curiosity…

"No," she said firmly, but still smiling.

Suddenly, he pulled the hair tie, and the strands fell, framing her face. Before she could react, he took off her glasses too.

"Hey!" she protested, holding out her hand. "Give it back!"

But he didn't give it back. The world seemed to shrink in that instant. He looked at her as if he were seeing her for the first time. Her hair was loose, her gaze confused, and she was beautiful in a way he had never noticed before.

"What happened?" she asked, her voice lower.

He swallowed hard, his heart racing.

"Nothing..." he lied. "I mean... I'd never noticed."

"Noticed what?" he insisted.

He took a deep breath, his heart racing.

— In how beautiful you are.