VALOROUS

ogether in the library, and even grab coffee together at the campus café. Adiza tried to put on a brave face, to pretend that she didn't care. But deep down, she was aching.

. "I know you're with Britney now, and I shouldn't even be telling you this. But I just can't help how I feel." Alex took a step forward, his eyes locked on Adiza's face. "Adiza, don't cry," he said, his voice soft and gentle. "I had no idea you felt this way, but I have to admit, I've been feeling the same way about you." Adiza's eyes snapped up to meet Alex's, and she felt a wave of shock wash over her. "What?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. Alex nodded, his eyes locked on hers. "I know I've been spending a lot of time with Britney, but it's just been a distraction for me. I was trying to get close to her to forget about you, but it didn't work." Adiza felt like she had been punched in the gut. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. "You have feelings for me?" she asked, her voice shaking. Alex nodded, his eyes locked on hers. "Yes, I do," he said, his voice soft and gentle. "I've had feelings for you for a long time, but I didn't know how to tell you." Adiza felt a wave of emotion wash over her, and she burst into tears. Alex pulled her into his arms, holding her close as she cried. "I'm so sorry, Adiza," he said, his voice soft and gentle. "I h