Lando Normis

Lando couldn't stop looking at Oscar.

They had been friends since first grade, but by the eighth grade, Lando realized his feelings had shifted into something deeper.

He found himself catching Oscar's every movement, constantly seeking ways to be near him and finding excuses for physical contact, like a hand on a shoulder or a playful nudge.

Everything changed when Oscar started dating a girl from a parallel class.

Watching them together left Lando feeling empty and ignored.

For a month, he watched as Oscar became distant, failing to answer messages and focusing all his attention on his new relationship. Finally, during recess, Lando's frustration boiled over.

*He pulled Oscar aside into a private space to confront him.

*"What are you doing? We're going to be late,"

Oscar said, confused by Lando's intensity.

"You've been ignoring me for weeks!"

Lando exclaimed.

"Have you forgotten our friendship?"

Oscar stepped forward, defensive.

"What is going on with you?"

"I love you,"

Lando’s voice broke as tears began to flow.

"I’ve loved you since we were kids. Every time I touched your arm or tried to be close, it was because I wanted you to notice me. And then you just moved on with her."

Oscar froze, his eyes wide with realization. "What?"

He whispered.

"I love you, and you didn't even notice,"

Lando repeated. Lando reached out in desperation, but Oscar gently caught his wrists to steady him.

"Stop,"

Oscar said softly.

"Why? Don't you feel anything?"

Lando asked, trying to pull away.

"I’m just stunned, Lando. I honestly had no idea,"

Oscar replied, his voice steadying. He let go of Lando's hands and looked deeply into his eyes. The tension between them shifted into a heavy silence.

"Not here,"

Oscar said quietly.

"Not at school. Let’s talk about this properly tonight at your place."