Yuvaan sat in the library, trying to focus on his notes. But his mind kept drifting to Aarav. They had been spending time together almost every day—walking to class, sharing snacks, even watching movies late at night. It felt special. But Aarav never said what they were. Were they just friends? Or something more?
That afternoon, Yuvaan saw Aarav laughing with another guy near the café. The guy touched Aarav's arm, and Aarav didn't pull away. Yuvaan felt something twist in his chest. He didn't know why it hurt so much. Maybe he was jealous. Maybe he was confused.
Later, Aarav found Yuvaan in the lab.
Hey, Aarav said with a smile. You disappeared today.
I was busy,Yuvaan replied, not looking up.
Aarav tilted his head. Are you mad at me?
No, Yuvaan said quickly. But his voice was flat.
Aarav sat beside him. You're acting weird. Did I do something?
Yuvaan hesitated. He wanted to ask, Who was that guy? But he didn't. Instead, he said, Sometimes I don't understand you. Aarav blinked. What do you mean?
You act like we're close. Like we're… more than friends. But then you're with other people. You never say what this is.
Aarav looked down. I didn't know it bothered you.
Yuvaan sighed. I just want to know where I stand.
There was a long silence. Aarav reached out and gently touched Yuvaan's hand.
I care about you, Aarav said softly. A lot. But I get scared. I've been hurt before.
Yuvaan looked at him. I'm not asking for everything. Just honesty.
Aarav nodded. Okay. I'll try.
That night, Yuvaan lay in bed, staring at his phone. He typed a message: What are we?
He stared at it for a long time before hitting send.
No reply came. Not that night. Not the next morning.
Yuvaan felt his heart sink. Maybe Aarav didn't feel the same. Maybe he had imagined everything.
But just as he was about to give up, his phone buzzed.
Aarav had replied: Can we talk in person?
Yuvaan's heart beat faster.
Maybe there was still hope.