The Boy Next Door

Lovestruck

As Valentine's Day, the most famous festival known for its celebration of romantic love and admiration, finally came around the corner, I couldn't help but feel a sense of dread. It was yet another time for numerous single individuals like me to suffer through the onslaught of heart-shaped decorations, sappy love songs, and public displays of affection.

Yes, I hate Valentines. Why must it be the only day that you're able to confess your feelings, give special gifts to your loved ones, or show their act of love?

As Seth proudly displayed his haul of flowers, chocolates, and a giant teddy bear, I couldn't help but roll my eyes playfully.

"Damn, looks like somebody's the ladies' favorite," I teased, trying to hide the pang of jealousy.

"I sure am... Although I have only one person on my mind," Seth replied, his gaze drifting towards me and Lisa.

Both Lisa and I exchanged a silent glance, our thoughts mirroring each other's.

"Hey, where's my gift?" Seth interrupted our silent exchange.

"What do you mean?" I replied, trying to play dumb.

"Don't you have one for me?" Seth pressed, his expression turning expectant.

I hesitated, my mind racing as I debated whether to confess my true feelings or play it off with a joke. In the end, I opted for the latter.

"No! Why don't you ask the other girls," I retorted, masking my disappointment with a hint of sarcasm.

"Fine fine, not like I was hoping to get anything from you anyways," Seth replied, his tone casual but betraying a hint of hurt.

It was finally the evening, I was hoping to confess to Seth but I have no clue where he is. I spotted Nathan on the way and decided to ask him.

"Nathan! Have you seen Seth?" I asked.

"Hm, he's probably at the gym"

"Thanks a lot!" As soon as I heard that, I quickly rushed to get to the gym so that I could finally confront Seth about my feelings all along.

"Don't forget about our date Kat!" Nathan shouted, but I completely ignored his words, besides. I'm about to have Seth as my own.

When I finally arrived at the gym, I felt as If I ran out of breath and stopped for some air. Somehow I heard a familiar voice coming from the other side.

"Why are you still here at school?" Seth questioned.

"I should be asking you the same thing." Lisa replied.

"Oh I'm just doing my evening duties, you?"

"Nothing special, just gonna send some documents to the council's office."

Lisa then pulled out a big box of chocolate and gave it to Seth with no hesitation.

"H-Here's the chocolate as the tradition!" Lisa talks in a shy mattered way.

"Thanks a lot!"

"I should get going now!" Lisa quickly walks away due to the embarrassment she thought she was having, but that wasn't the case when Seth touched her right shoulder to stop her from going away. Seth then grabbed Lisa by the arms.

"Lisa...I've been thinking of telling you this for a while. I know we've been friends for many, many years now and we've certainly had our ups and downs, but I absolutely cherish you. I could see how genuine you're in your eyes ever since I've looked at it." There was a silenced pause for a bit