Tee knows something's off.
Nio still comes over. Still laughs at his jokes. Still cuddles against him on his bed like he belongs there.
But he pulls away faster. Flinches when Tee touches his hand in public. Leaves just a little too quickly after study sessions. He keeps looking like he's about to say something - and then doesn't.
It's driving Tee insane.
So when Nio shows up on a random Thursday evening with snacks and a quiet smile, Tee doesn't let it slide this time.
They're halfway through a movie when Tee mutes the TV.
Nio blinks. "What are you - ?"
"Do you like me?"
Nio freezes.
Tee watches him. "Because I do. I like you, Nio. I've liked you since you walked into class looking like you were scared of your own shadow."
Nio's lips part, stunned.
"I know things got fast," Tee says, voice soft. "And maybe I'm being pushy, but I need to know. If this - whatever this is - means anything to you too."
Nio swallows, his voice barely audible. "It does."
Tee's eyes search his. "Then tell me. I need to hear it from you."
And Nio, heart hammering, finally lets it all spill out.
"I like you," he says, barely breathing. "I've liked you for so long I didn't know how to not like you. And when you kissed me, I thought I was dreaming. And when we… when we slept together, I didn't sleep. I just laid there thinking about how lucky I was to be near you."
Tee is stunned into silence.
Then slowly, he reaches forward, threading their fingers together.
"You're such an idiot," Tee whispers.
Nio laughs nervously. "What?"
"For thinking I wouldn't feel the same way."
And Tee leans in, kissing him like it's the easiest thing in the world.