Chapter 2: Hidden Truths

*Ethan's Pov*

I trudged home, my mind replaying the smirk Trevor had given me in English class. Why did it leave me breathless?

As I entered my room, I collapsed onto my bed, staring at the ceiling. My thoughts swirled, torn between loyalty to Rachel and the undeniable attraction to Trevor.

"What am I doing?" I whispered to myself. Why was I dating Rachel, the school queen, when my heart skipped a beat thinking about Trevor?

I recalled the day Rachel asked me out. I'd been flattered, and she was gorgeous, but... it wasn't like my heart fluttered when she smiled. Trevor's smirk, however, made my entire world spin.

I thought about how Trevor made me feel – happy, carefree, and alive. I couldn't deny it; I liked him. The realization hit me like a ton of bricks: I'm gay.

My mom called me down for dinner, breaking my reverie. I smiled, feeling a sense of clarity. Now, I just needed to figure out how to break up with Rachel.

*Trevor's Pov*

Trevor leaned against his desk, chatting with Emily. "I think Ethan might be interested," he said, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

Emily raised an eyebrow. "Really? "What makes you think Ethan's into you?"

Trevor pondered before responding, "Because he looks at me the way I look at him." He chuckled. "Though I'm more subtle, and he reacts adorably to everything I do."

Emily grinned mischievously. "You're hooked, aren't you?"

Trevor shrugged. "He has a girlfriend."

Emily rolled her eyes. "Rachel's just using him because she couldn't get you."

Trevor sighed. "I know."

Emily encouraged, "Talk to him, break the ice. It's clear he's not going to make the first move."

Trevor nodded, considering Emily's advice.

And at Liam's house

*Liam's Pov*

After dinner, Liam settled onto his couch and messaged Ethan.

Liam: Hey Ethan, you okay? You seemed spaced out today.

Ethan: Yeah, I'm fine. Trevor smirked at me today, and I'm on cloud nine. I did some thinking and realized I like guys – Trevor, specifically.

Liam: Wait, you just realized you like guys? You've liked Trevor since sophomore year! It's pretty obvious.