I was staying with some friends for the weekend, just to get away for a bit. nothing unusual—just movies, snacks, and lazy mornings. one of their roommates was around, but we barely interacted, just a quick “hey” in passing.

one evening, i stayed up late, scrolling on my phone in the living room. i had on these loose shorts and an oversized tee, totally relaxed and thinking i was alone. i didn’t notice him sitting on the kitchen stool, half in the shadows, until i shifted on the couch.

“didn’t mean to interrupt,” he said, his voice breaking the silence.

i looked up, catching his eyes for a second too long. there was something in the way he was staring, like he wasn’t sure if he should be looking, but couldn’t help himself. i adjusted my shirt casually, pretending not to notice, but my heartbeat was in my ears.

we sat there in silence for a while, the air feeling heavier by the second. finally, i got up to head to bed, brushing past him in the small space. his arm barely grazed mine, but it sent a shiver down my spine.

nothing was said. nothing happened. but the way his eyes lingered as i walked away left me restless all night. maybe it’s just in my head, or maybe that moment was the start of something i’m not ready to admit yet.