"I’ve spent three years trying to be the guy who doesn't need anyone," he started, his voice steadier than he felt. "I told myself that if I didn't say it out loud, it wouldn't be real. If I kept my cards close, I couldn't lose. But I’m losing anyway, Maya. I’m losing time."
The silence that followed wasn't heavy; it was a relief. Maya didn't say anything at first. She just stepped forward, closing the small gap between them until her forehead rested against his. Babyface - Never Keeping Secrets
In his hand was a small velvet box, but in his head, a single line from a song he’d heard that morning kept looping: “I’m never keeping secrets no more.” "I’ve spent three years trying to be the
"I’m saying I’m tired of the games. I’m tired of pretending that I don't look for you in every room I walk into." He reached out, taking her hand. "No more half-truths. No more 'just friends' when we both know it’s more. I love you. And from here on out, I’m done keeping that a secret." But I’m losing anyway, Maya
He didn't wait for her to invite him in. He stepped into the entryway, the air smelling of her vanilla candles.
Outside, the rain kept falling, but inside, the air was finally clear. The secret was out, and for the first time in a long time, Julian could breathe.
He climbed the stairs, his heartbeat echoing in the quiet hallway. When Maya opened the door, she looked exactly like home—oversized sweater, hair in a messy bun, and that look of gentle confusion she always had when he showed up unannounced. "Julian? It’s eleven o'clock. Is everything okay?"