Under the old oak tree where they often studied, Clara’s heart raced as she watched Ethan laughing with their friends. The sun dipped low, casting a warm glow around them, but her heart felt cold. The moment had come. She took a deep breath, her palms sweaty, and approached him.

“Ethan, can we talk?” She stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. He turned, surprise etched across his face, but he nodded. They stepped aside, the chatter of their friends fading into the background.

“Clara, what’s wrong?” He asked, concern creeping into his eyes.

“I… I need to tell you something,” she confessed, her voice trembling. “I’ve loved you for a long time. You make me laugh, you make me feel alive… but I don’t think you feel the same.”

Ethan’s expression softened, but he looked away. “Clara, I’m flattered. You’re amazing, but…” the silence stretched painfully, words left unspoken, hearts left unfulfilled.