A Love That Hesitates

A Love That Hesitates

(Deep breath… Exhale…)

"Finally… the time has come."

I muttered to myself, clenching and unclenching my fists in an attempt to calm the storm raging inside me. My heart pounded against my ribs, my throat dry despite the cool afternoon breeze.

The botanical garden behind the college was quiet, just as I had expected. Most students left after their practicals, making this place the perfect setting. The golden rays of the setting sun filtered through the canopy of leaves, casting dappled shadows on the stone pathway. The faint rustling of trees and the distant chirping of birds filled the silence.

Then, I heard her voice.

"Harsh?"

Shreya's soft, familiar tone echoed through the garden as she looked around, searching for me. I stepped forward, my heart tightening as her gaze met mine.

Her long, raven-black hair cascaded over her shoulders, catching the sunlight in a way that made it shimmer like silk. Dressed in her usual casual college attire, she looked effortlessly radiant. But despite the warmth in her expression, there was a hint of curiosity in her eyes—perhaps even a bit of apprehension.

I swallowed hard. "Sorry for making you come all the way here."

She smiled, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Don't worry about it. But… what's this about?"

Then, her eyes narrowed slightly, a teasing glint flickering in them. "This atmosphere feels a little… off. Are you about to confess to me?"

I inhaled sharply, gathering every ounce of courage I had.

"That's right."

For the first time in my life, I said those words out loud.

Her eyes widened. "Eh?"

I clenched my fists, taking a step closer. "This is… a confession."

Silence.

The playful glint in her eyes faded, replaced by something else—hesitation.

"I see…" Shreya murmured, her gaze lowering slightly.

My chest tightened. Something about her expression told me this wasn't going to end the way I had hoped. But there was no turning back now. I had to see this through.

So, I told her everything.

How I had started seeing her as more than a friend. How, over the past six months, every little thing about her had made my heart race. How I had always been afraid of ruining our friendship but realized that if I didn't take this chance, I might regret it forever.

When I finished, she looked up at me, her eyes filled with an emotion I couldn't quite place.

Then, she spoke.

"I'm sorry. I can't, Harsh."

A cold weight settled in my chest. "I see… Do you have a crush on someone? Or do you love someone else?"

She shook her head. "No, I don't. There's no one like that."

"Then… why?" I asked, my voice quieter now.

Shreya sighed softly, looking away for a moment before meeting my gaze again. "I like my life the way it is right now. Being surrounded by friends, laughing, enjoying every day without worrying about things like romance. That's why… I don't feel like being in a relationship right now."

She hesitated before adding, "And… how do I say this? I just don't see you that way."

The words hit harder than I expected.

"What do you mean… you don't see me that way?" My voice came out hoarse.

She lowered her gaze again. "I'm sorry."

I felt my heart sinking, but I refused to give up—not yet.

Taking a deep breath, I took a step closer, trying to keep my voice steady. "Please reconsider me as a potential partner. Just once… go on a trial date with me."

She looked at me, startled.

"If you don't even try, how would you know? Maybe you'll start seeing me differently. Just one chance, that's all I ask."

She hesitated, her fingers fidgeting slightly. I could see the internal battle in her eyes, the indecision weighing on her.

A long pause.

Then, finally, she sighed. "…Okay."

My heart skipped a beat. "Really?"

She gave a small nod. "This Sunday… let's go on a trial date."

I exhaled, relief washing over me.

It wasn't the answer I had hoped for. But it was a chance. And right now, that was more than enough.