He ran a hand through his hair, looking everywhere but at Aiden. His voice was low, almost trembling
"I… I'm scared," he admitted. "Scared of… being out with you. Being public. People talk. Things get messy. I can't
Aiden's chest tightened so much it hurt. His throat burned. "You're scared of me?"
"No! Not you! It's… everything else. I want you, Aiden. I do. But I'm terrified of… of us being seen. Of it… breaking things."
Aiden swallowed hard. His heartbeat was thunder in his ears. He looked at Jamal for one long, searching moment… and then he turned.
"I can't do this," he whispered.
He started walking again. Faster this time. Not looking back.
Jamal called after him, but Aiden didn't stop. Didn't even slow.
By the time he reached his apartment, Aiden's hands were shaking. His chest burned, his eyes were wet, and every step inside felt heavier than the last. He slammed the door shut, leaned against it, and let himself fall.
His phone was on the table. He dialed the only person who would understand.
"Hey… it's me," he whispered as soon as his best friend answered.
The floodgates opened.
He cried like he hadn't in years. Sobs shook his whole body. Words spilled out between gasps. "I… I don't know what to do… I love him, but he… he's scared… and I can't… I can't…"
His best friend held the line, listening, letting him unravel.
Minutes felt like hours. Aiden didn't care. He just cried. Heartbroken, frustrated, overwhelmed.
Finally, when his tears slowed to ragged breaths, he wiped his eyes. His voice was small, hoarse, but determined.
"I can't keep running after someone who's too scared to even fight for us," he whispered to himself
But even as he said it, deep down, he knew he wasn't done with Jamal. Not yet.
I know and that's why I told you to dump that bastard zayn said,and I warned you cause he always wanted y'all to meet somewhere private
Man I told you but you know I would do anything to make you date again
With that said do you want me to set up a hinge profile for you you know what i'ma just set it up give me a minute
And all done,ah you got a match
Wait I'm almost at your place
What!you're coming here ?
Dude I left as soon as you started crying
I even got your favorite ice cream
Aw I needed that ,I need to shower
Okay I'll be there in a few minutes
Passcode still the same rii
Yes…