Love, Simon

Liam's POV

"Since we finished our tasks early today, I was wondering if you would like to join me for a movie?" Aaron asked, his eyes bright with enthusiasm and a hint of excitement dancing in his voice. The afternoon sun streamed in, casting a warm glow around us as the prospect of a shared experience hung in the air.

"Yeah, I don't mind at all," I replied, a smile creeping onto my face, but I felt the need to set some boundaries. "But can we please steer clear of horror movies?" I added, making sure to emphasize my aversion to anything that might scare me. The thought of watching something terrifying made my heart race in the wrong way, and I preferred the comforting embrace of a good story over the adrenaline of a scare.

"Sure! That sounds good," he said, nodding in agreement, his enthusiasm unwavering. "Which movie do you want to watch?" he inquired, clearly eager to dive into the choice with an energy that was contagious. His willingness to cater to my preferences made me feel more at ease.

"How about 'Love, Simon'? It's a great film," I suggested, feeling a thrill of anticipation for the heartfelt story we were about to enjoy together. I loved the idea of sharing this particular film with him, as it wasn't just entertaining; it resonated with deeper themes of love and acceptance.

'Love, Simon' centers on Simon Spier, a closeted gay teenage boy who finds himself navigating the complexities of adolescence in a world that often feels like it lacks understanding. He is forced to juggle the dynamics of friendships, familial expectations, and the weight of a secret—a blackmailer threatening to reveal his sexual orientation to the entire high school. At the same time, he embarks on a journey to uncover the identity of an anonymous classmate with whom he has developed a connection online. It's a beautiful coming-of-age story that captures the essence of young love, the struggle for acceptance, and the bravery it takes to be true to oneself.

I suggested this movie not only because it was romantic but also because it dealt with themes relevant to many young people, including the trials of being a closeted gay individual. I couldn't help but wonder if perhaps Aaron was also navigating similar waters, hiding parts of himself that he felt he couldn't share. As we settled in for the movie, I found myself hoping he would notice the significance behind my suggestion; maybe, just maybe, there was a chance for something more than friendship between us. Yet, I couldn't shake the thought that the kiss merely stemmed from lust or an impulsive moment rather than genuine affection. The possibilities danced in my mind as the screen flickered to life, igniting both excitement and uncertainty within me.