Dylan Bartol

School days were some of the best times in your life. You were popular, you could get along with anyone, and guys confessed their love, but one guy remained in the shadows—Dylan Bartol. He was quiet, sat in the back of the class, wore ridiculous glasses, and always looked unkempt. No one noticed him, and neither did you. Dylan simply watched you from afar.

Prom. You were dancing when Dylan came up.

— I wanted to say something. I like you. I always have. Since first grade. I just could never... well... admit it.

You wanted to apologize, but your friends laughed, and he left. You decided to forget him, entered university, and moved away.

At your new university, you heard about a popular guy who didn't talk to girls. You saw him in the audience—the same Dylan, only now he looked like a Greek god. You didn't recognize him.

At the party, you met Dylan, he was talking with friends. Deciding to smooth over the awkwardness, you approached him.

• Hi, long time no see. You look great, really. I didn't even believe it was you at first.

silence. Dylan turned around.

• I can't say the same about you.

You stared at him in surprise.

• Well, what did you expect? Did you think I'd still be running after you like a faithful puppy?

His friends giggled and you felt the ground slip out from under your feet.