In the warm embrace of an August day, I remember the first time our paths crossed. It was during the throes of a pandemic, a time when face-to-face classes were but a distant memory. And truth be told, I relished the solitude it afforded me, shielding me from the rigors of socializing. Little did I know that this very circumstance would weave the threads of our story.

Hello, I'm Phoebe, just a seventeen-year-old narrating the tale of how a special someone entered my world. Let's delve into the beginning, shall we?

As August's sun kissed the horizon, our education remained confined to virtual realms, devoid of those classroom encounters. It was then that I first laid eyes on him—Marco, a name that now carries profound significance in my heart. Tall and commanding, he possessed an oddly soothing voice that could melt even the coldest of hearts. Yet, love at first sight seemed an outlandish notion, something I couldn't quite accept. My friends, however, saw through the facade, teasing me relentlessly, insisting that he was unequivocally my type.

But, you see, I didn't care much for Marco at first. Our initial interactions left me with a chilly impression, akin to my own reserved nature. I thought, "Why bother conversing with this guy?"

Fast forward to November, as my birthday drew near, our connection remained distant. However, fate had different plans. A group activity brought us together, and it was during this time that I began to regret ever crossing paths with you. You had the power to ignite happiness within me while simultaneously stoking the flames of jealousy toward some of my closest friends.

The day we truly connected is etched in my memory as one of life's most cherished moments. It felt as if I had finally encountered someone who resonated with me on a profound level. Conversations about our shared love for cartoons, manga, and games enthralled us for hours. Your infectious laughter and the way your eyes lit up while discussing your passions were nothing short of mesmerizing. It was during those moments that something stirred within me, something powerful and undeniable.

A few days later, as my birthday approached, the greetings began to flood in. While I appreciated every message, yours stood out as the most special. Perhaps I'm biased, but your words carried a depth of sincerity that touched my heart. That night, as I contemplated the rollercoaster of emotions I was experiencing, I resolved not to let myself fall for you. However, fate had other plans, for you surprised me once again. A call on a virtual meeting just to wish me a happy birthday and inquire about my day shattered the walls I had tried to build.

With each passing day, my feelings for you grew stronger, and I began to consider confessing my emotions. But then, you uttered those words that sent a wave of defeat crashing over me: "I have a rule against dating friends and classmates." My heart sank, and the flicker of hope I had nurtured dimmed. Yet, I clung to the belief that someday, somehow, you might come to see me in a different light.