Chapter 2: Secrets and Lies

I couldn't shake off the feeling of excitement and nervousness as I walked back to my dorm. Alex's charming smile and piercing blue eyes kept flashing in my mind. I felt like I'd known him for years, not just hours.

As I settled into my routine, I found myself constantly checking my phone for messages from Alex. We'd text each other nonstop, sharing stories, jokes, and laughter. It was like we had our own little world, hidden from the rest of campus.

But as the days went by, I started to notice that Alex was always "busy" during the day. He'd only respond to my messages late at night, and when we did meet up, it was always in secret. I brushed it off as paranoia, thinking maybe he was just shy or private.

One night, as we were walking across campus, Alex suddenly pulled me into a quiet alleyway. "I have to tell you something," he said, his voice low and serious. "I'm in a relationship."

My heart sank, and I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. "What? Why didn't you tell me?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

Alex looked at me with pleading eyes. "I know it's wrong, but I couldn't help how I feel. I care about you, Maya. And I don't know what to do."

I was torn. Part of me wanted to believe him, to think that our connection was strong enough to overcome any obstacle. But another part of me knew that I deserved better. I deserved to be someone's priority, not their secret.

"What's her name?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

"Rachel," Alex replied, his eyes dropping in shame. "We've been together for three years. But it's complicated, Maya. We're not happy, but we're stuck together for reasons that are hard to explain."

I felt a pang of guilt, knowing that I was now a part of their complicated web. But I couldn't help myself. I was addicted to the thrill of being with Alex, even if it was only in secret.

As we parted ways that night, I knew that I had a choice to make. I could walk away, preserving my dignity and self-respect. Or I could continue down the path of secrets and lies, risking everything for a love that might never be mine.