I tried to avoid Liam.
Not because I didn't want to see him—
but because I wanted to see him too much.
Yet there he was again, sitting beside me in class like it was the most natural thing in the world.
"You're early today," he whispered.
"So are you," I replied.
"Couldn't sleep."
I glanced at him. "Nightmares?"
He hesitated for half a second. "Something like that."
Before I could ask more, the lecturer started. Still, I felt it—Liam had layers. And whatever he was hiding sat heavy on his shoulders.
After class, he walked me halfway to the hostel.
"Thank you," I said. "For... listening the other day."
"You didn't owe me that," he replied. "But I'm glad you trusted me."
I stopped walking. "Don't get used to it."
He smiled softly. "I won't push."
That scared me more than if he had.
We stood there, the air thick with words we weren't saying.
"Ariella," he said quietly. "Can I take you out sometime?"
My heart skipped.
"Like... a date?" I asked.
"Like two people trying not to pretend they don't feel something."
I looked away. The truth was dangerous.
"I don't want to get hurt," I whispered.
He stepped closer—but not too close. "Neither do I."
Our eyes met.
For a moment, I thought he might kiss me.
He didn't.
Instead, he said, "Think about it."
As I walked away, my phone vibrated.
Unknown Number:
I hope you're thinking about me too.
I smiled.
And then immediately hated myself for it.
Because I was already falling—
and I hadn't even said yes.