HIS NUMBER 1 FAN

HIATUS

“Hey Vanny, do you want to walk to school together?” Alex’s voice wavered slightly, but Vanny didn’t seem to notice.

“Sure, Alex. Let’s go!” Vanny grabbed his backpack, and they set off down the familiar path lined with trees.

For a while, they chatted about classes, weekend plans, and funny stories from their shared memories. But Alex’s mind was miles away, rehearsing the words that needed to be said. Finally, as they approached the corner near the school, Alex stopped walking.

“Umm, Vanny,” Alex said, looking at the ground, then up at Vanny’s kind eyes.

“Yes, Alex?” Vanny’s tone was curious but lighthearted.

Alex took a deep breath. “I have something to tell you. I know this might change everything, and I’m scared it could break our friendship, but I need you to know... I like you. No, more than that, Vanny, I love you.”

A stunned silence followed. Vanny’s eyes widened, and he took a small step back. “Ehh... why? I mean, I’m gay, through and through. Why me?”

Alex’s eyes shimmered with vulnerability. “It’s because you’re special, V. You’re important to me in a way no one else is. I’ve tried to ignore it, but I can’t. I just needed you to know.”

Vanny’s expression softened, but a pained look crossed his face. “Alex, I... I’m sorry. I think of you as my closest friend. Nothing more. I mean, I like you, too, but only as a friend. You’ve been so good to me, and I appreciate that more than you know. But if you keep holding onto this... we might have to end our friendship. I’m so sorry, Alex. Please try to understand.”

Alex forced a small, sad smile. “No, Vanny, don’t apologize. I shouldn’t have put you in this position. I just... I hope we can still be friends.”

Vanny’s eyes were warm, tinged with regret. “We can, Alex. It might take some time, but I hope we find our way back.”

They stood there, under the blossoms, as the school bell rang in the distance—two friends at the edge of a chapter that neither was ready to close.

Hey V,

Oh, hi DJ.

I was wondering if you’d like to study together. I know it’s been a week since our fight, and I really want to make it up to you. Maybe we could go over some notes and I’ll even get your favorite snacks?

Vanny smiled, the tension between them starting to ease.

“Sure, I’d love that, DJ. But you’re treating me,” Vanny teased, a playful glint in his eyes.

DJ chuckled, relieved by the response. “Yes, as always. And I’m not taking no for an answer!”

They laughed together, a sound that brought back the warmth of their relationship.

“You know,” Vanny said as they walked side by side, “I could really use a coffee. My week has been pretty darn crazy.”

“Then coffee it is,” DJ replied, his smile genuine. “Let’s get through this week together.”

And with that, they walked toward their favorite café, a sense of hope slowly weaving back into their connection.