Whispers of our Hearts (gxg)

Hazel and Ivy are inseparable-best friends in a small town where any deviation from the norm is critically viewed. Their friendship has seen them through the ups and downs of adolescence, but when deep connection unexpectedly turns into tender feelings, their worlds are thrown into turmoil. Hazel is unsure of her feelings-friendship or love? Ivy knows what she wants, but fear of the unknown and the reactions of her conservative surroundings hold her back.

Amidst family tensions and societal expectations, the two struggle to understand what they truly feel for each other. But how does one deal with feelings that could destroy everything that has mattered to them so far? How can they find their way when the love that draws them together is simultaneously seen as the greatest crime?

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Excerpt:
"Are you sure we're ready for this, I mean, that between us, you and me?" she asked softly as my gaze swept over the shimmering surface of the river. "What if someone finds out?"

I gently placed my hand on her arm. "Sometimes you have to take a risk to find out what really matters," I said, my voice a whisper in the evening breeze. "I know it's complicated, but I can't ignore these feelings any longer. I want you to know how I feel-not just as a friend, but as something more."

I felt my heart race. I could barely grasp the pain and joy in Hazel's eyes. The moment was so intense it felt as if it could stop time.

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Trigger Warnings:
Forbidden Love
Family Conflicts
Emotional Strain
Loss of a Loved One
Suicide
Societal Pressure and Stigmatization
Homophobia

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English isn't my first language, therefore, there may be some spelling and grammatical mistakes