Then the movie started. The booming explosions, fast-paced action—it was nearly impossible to follow just by sound. I felt the anxiety creeping in.

“Why won’t you even look at me?” Colin’s voice was quiet but firm.

I stiffened. “Colin, it’s not what you think.”

“Then what is it? Because it feels like you’ve been avoiding me this entire time.”

Tears welled in my eyes. “Colin, please—”

“No,” he interrupted, and before I could say another word, he was gone.

I sank onto a nearby bench, burying my face in my hands as tears streamed down. Everything was ruined.

Then, I felt someone sit beside me.

“You’re blind, aren’t you?”

I froze. It was Colin.

“Yes,” I whispered.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” he asked gently.

“I was scared,” I admitted. “I didn’t want to lose you.”

“You wouldn’t have,” he said softly. “But lying to me? That almost did.”

“I’m sorry,” I said, my voice still shaky. “Can we start over?”

A faint smile crossed his lips. “As long as you promise—no more secrets.”

“Deal,” I said, feeling hope spark inside me for the first time in a long while.