He climbed the stairs, his heartbeat echoing in the quiet hallway. When Maya opened the door, she looked exactly like home—oversized sweater, hair in a messy bun, and that look of gentle confusion she always had when he showed up unannounced. "Julian? It’s eleven o'clock. Is everything okay?"
"Finally," she whispered, a small, knowing smile tugging at her lips. "I thought you were going to keep me guessing forever."
For months, he’d played it safe. He was the king of the "casual check-in," the master of the "maybe next week." He’d built a fortress of cool composure to protect himself from the sting of rejection. But tonight, that fortress felt like a cage. Babyface - Never Keeping Secrets
"I’m saying I’m tired of the games. I’m tired of pretending that I don't look for you in every room I walk into." He reached out, taking her hand. "No more half-truths. No more 'just friends' when we both know it’s more. I love you. And from here on out, I’m done keeping that a secret."
The silence that followed wasn't heavy; it was a relief. Maya didn't say anything at first. She just stepped forward, closing the small gap between them until her forehead rested against his. He climbed the stairs, his heartbeat echoing in
Maya leaned against the doorframe, her expression softening. "What are you saying?"
He didn't wait for her to invite him in. He stepped into the entryway, the air smelling of her vanilla candles. It’s eleven o'clock
"I’ve spent three years trying to be the guy who doesn't need anyone," he started, his voice steadier than he felt. "I told myself that if I didn't say it out loud, it wouldn't be real. If I kept my cards close, I couldn't lose. But I’m losing anyway, Maya. I’m losing time."