I Wish He Knew

Poet's note: It started with total silence. I used to see him all the time on the volleyball court, moving across the sand, completely focused on the game. To me, he was just another student—a face in the crowd. I didn't feel a spark, a blush, or even a hint of interest. I was perfectly indifferent. Then, everything shifted overnight. He appeared in my dream out of nowhere, and when I woke up, the world looked different. It was as if my subconscious had recognized something my eyes had missed. From that morning on, I couldn't stop thinking about him. The indifference was gone, replaced by a deep, sudden crush that left me breathless. Now, because we are in different academic branches, seeing him has become a game of strategy and patience: The Long Wait: I find myself lingering near the courts or around campus for hours, just hoping for a glimpse of him. The wait feels long, but the second I see him, it feels worth it. The Scooty Follow: When he finally leaves, I find myself rushing to my scooty. I time my start perfectly so I can ride a short distance behind him. It’s the only way I can stay near him for a few extra minutes, watching from a distance and replaying that dream in my head while the wind hits my face.