Unspoken Desires | English bl | Completed

Chapter 1: The First Encounter

The warm rays of the morning sun pierced through the dense trees surrounding the sprawling campus, marking the start of another vibrant day at the university. Students hustled about, some with books in hand and others with laughter echoing through the corridors. Among them was Aarav Wijewardhane, a third-year Business Management student and the undisputed heartthrob of the campus. Aarav's towering frame, perfectly styled hair and sharp jawline were enough to make heads turn wherever he went. His confident smirk and undeniable charisma had earned him a reputation---not only as a ladies' man but also as a notorious prankster.

"Hey Aarav, what's up with the first-years today? Found any fresh meat to mess with?" one of his friends teased, patting his on the back as they strolled toward the main building. Aarav's smirk deepened.

"Give it time," he replied, his tone dripping with mischief. "They day's just getting started."

Meanwhile, in a quieter corner of the campus, Ayaan Wijewardhane, Aarav's younger brother, was nervously adjusting the strap of his bag. It was his first day at the university and while he was excited, the shadow of his infamous brother loomed over him.

"Don't screw this up, Ayaan," he muttered to himself as he walked toward the registration hall.

Unlike Aarav, Ayaan was laid-back and approachable. With his warm smile and easygoing nature, he had always been the type to make friends effortlessly. But today, as he stepped onto the campus, he felt the weight of being Aarav's brother.

As he stood in line for registration, a boy with a shy demeanor approached the desk next to him. His soft features and warm brown eyes gave him an almost angelic look and his neatly combed hair hinted at his careful nature.

"Hi," the boy greeted with a polite smile, his voice soft but clear. "Is this the line for first-years?"

Ayaan nodded. "Yeah, it is. First day too?"

"Yep, I'm Aiden Fernando," the boy introduced himself, extending his hand.

Ayaan shook it with a grin. "Nice to meet you, Aiden. I'm Ayaan Wijewardhane. Looks like we'll be starting this journey together."

The two quickly fell into easy conversation, sharing details about their backgrounds and laughing about the awkwardness of being freshman. Ayaan found himself naturally drawn to Aiden's innocence and humor, while Aiden appreciated Ayaan's friendly and protective nature.

As they walked through the campus, Ayaan began pointing out the various building. "That's the main lecture hall. Over there's the library---huge, but the Wi-Fi sucks most of the time."

Aiden chuckled. "Noted. And what about the cafeteria?"

"Oh, it's decent. Just avoid the chicken sandwiches on Wednesdays. Trust me."

They both laughed as they passed a group of senior students lounging on the steps of the administration building. Ayaan's voice grew quieter as they approached.

"Okay, so word of advice," he said, leaning closer to Aiden. "Watch out for the seniors. Especially a guy named Aarav Wijewardhane."

Aiden raised an eyebrow. "Aarav Wijewardhane? Wait, isn't that your last name?"

Ayaan scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Yeah... he's my older brother. But we're, uh, very different. Let's just say he's... a handful."

Before Aiden could respond, a familiar voice cut through the air.

"Well, well, if it isn't the little prince showing a newbie around."

Both Ayaan and Aiden turned to see Aarav standing a few feet away, his signature smirk firmly in place. He was flanked by a couple if his friends, who were eyeing Aiden curiously. Aarav's eyes, however, were fixed on Aiden.

"Who's this?" Aarav asked, his tone teasing as he stepped closer. "Ayaan, you're making friends already? Impressive."

Ayaan rolled his eyes, stepping protectively in front of Aiden. "Back off, Aarav. He's new. Don't start."

Aarav chuckled, ignoring his brother's warning and shifting his attention to Aiden. "What's your name. newbie?"

"A-Aiden," he stammered, his cheeks turning red under Aarav's intense gaze.

"Aiden," Aarav repeated, as if testing the name on his tongue. "Cute name. Welcome to the jungle." His smirk widened. "Let's see how long you survive."

Ayaan groaned. "Aarav, seriously. Just go."

But Aarav wasn't done. He leaned in slightly, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Don't let my brother fool you, Aiden. He's not as sweet as he looks."

Aiden blinked, unsure how to respond. Before he could say anything, Aarav gave him a wink and sauntered off, leaving Ayaan fuming and Aiden thoroughly confused.

"Sorry about that," Ayaan muttered, running a hand through his hair. "He's... like that with everyone."

"It's okay," Aiden said, though his heart was still racing. Aarav's presence had felt an odd impression on him---a mix of intimidation and intrigue.

As they day went on, Ayaan continued showing Aiden around, but Aarav's lingering gaze and playful taunts seemed to follow them wherever they went.

And so, the first day ended with an unspoken tension hanging in the air---one that promised this was only the beginning of a complicated and fiery entanglement.