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."