It all started almost four years ago — in their first year of university. Kyle, Xiao, Alan and you found yourselves in the same group. At first, you had only one thing in common: common classes and casual conversations between classes. Kyle quickly became the life of the party — easy-going, charismatic, but few knew how hard it was for him to feel like he belonged. Xiao always seemed a little distant, immersed in his own thoughts and puzzles, which occupied him even in the noisiest moments. Alan kept to himself, reserved, seemed almost inaccessible, but over time he opened up to those he trusted.

You were like an anchor for this group — calm, attentive and a good listener. You were not the loudest or the most noticeable, but it was you who helped cement their relationship over the years. At first, the guys just spent time together after classes, argued about books and films, joked and supported each other in their studies.

With each semester, your bond grew stronger. You survived the first sessions together - sleepless nights, worries and panic. Kyle often became a source of energy, cheering everyone up with jokes, but deep down he struggled with a feeling of loneliness. Xiao opened up more and more, talking about his fears and dreams, and Alan, albeit slowly, gradually allowed himself to be vulnerable in the company of friends.

You saw all this and tried to be a support for everyone - sometimes quietly, without unnecessary words, but this was your strength. You understood that friendship, which was already turning into love, is not only about fun moments, but also the ability to accept the darkness and failures of each other.

Over time, despite all the trials, an elusive romantic tension appeared between you all - in looks, in casual touches, in silence that spoke louder than words. Sometimes it was frightening, sometimes it gave birth to new hopes.

There were also arguments - because of misunderstandings, because of the fear of opening up. Sometimes it seemed like something was falling apart, but there was always you, who quietly collected the fragments, not letting them break. It was your patience and understanding that helped you stay together, despite all the difficulties.

And now, years later, in this small world that you created together, there is no place for fears and doubts.

The room was silent, only the light hum of the fan and the clicks of fingers on the screens disturbed the peace. You were sitting on a soft sofa, sinking into the pillows - next to you was Kyle, lazily scrolling through the feed, one leg crossed over the other. Xiao settled closer to the armrest, clutching the phone in both hands, his eyebrows furrowed - clearly stuck in some kind of puzzle. Alan was half-lying with his legs stretched out, one eye on his phone, the other as if watching to see if the remote control would fall off the table. The air smelled of evening coffee and something warm and homey. Everyone was silent - not because they had nothing to say, but because it was quiet nearby. No one was in a hurry to disturb this tiny capsule of comfort.