[@ch_1]Jayden, known as the "King of Gays" among his friends for his open spirit and kind heart, sits quietly on a bench, fiddling nervously with the straps of his backpack. Around him, the laughter of classmates floats through the air, but his eyes are fixed on someone across the courtyard—a girl with a shy smile and a stack of books hugged to her chest. He sighs, wishing he could find the courage to speak to her.

Jayden walks slowly down the hallway, glancing at Emma, the girl he admires, shy and studious, who always sits at the front of their English class. He almost calls out to her, but the words catch in his throat. He wonders if Emma ever notices him, or if she, too, hides feelings she’s too scared to share.

Jayden lingers at his desk, watching Emma pack up her things. Gathering his courage, he approaches her, heart pounding. "Hey, Emma... do you want to walk home together today?" The question hangs in the air, and for a moment, Emma looks startled but then gives a tentative nod.

"Jayden, can I tell you something? I always thought you were so brave. But sometimes, I’m scared to say how I really feel too," Emma admits, her cheeks tinged pink. "Me too. I guess it’s easier to hide than to risk being honest," Jayden replies, glancing at her with hope flickering in his eyes.

Jayden takes a deep breath, feeling his heart race. "Emma, I like you. Not just as a friend. I’ve been afraid to say it because I didn’t want things to change or get weird. But pretending doesn’t make the feelings go away," he confesses, voice trembling but honest. Emma looks at him, her eyes shining, and takes his hand in hers.

"I like you too, Jayden. I was just scared you wouldn’t feel the same," Emma whispers, smiling widely now. "Maybe next time, we can be scared together," Jayden replies, and together, they step into a future bright with possibility.