N day since I've heard his thoughts, Extra

The essay for Extra Chapter.

Love, in its purest form, often begins with a single moment - a fleeting glance, a radiant smile, or a chance encounter that forever alters the course of one's life. Such was the case on a sweltering summer day when two paths converged, setting in motion a tale of unrequited love that would span years. The protagonist, a top student accustomed to being the center of attention, found himself captivated by a classmate's genuine smile - a sight that stirred unfamiliar emotions within him. As fate would have it, they were assigned to the same class, providing ample opportunity for observation and the slow, steady growth of feelings that the protagonist initially struggled to comprehend. The realization of falling for someone of the same gender brought confusion and discomfort, yet the pull of attraction remained undeniable. However, love's path is seldom smooth, and the protagonist soon discovered the object of his affection harbored feelings for another - their class representative. This revelation created a complex web of emotions, with the protagonist silently yearning, his beloved pining for another, and that person, in turn, showing interest in the protagonist. Despite the pain of knowing his feelings were not reciprocated, the protagonist found solace in observing from afar, cherishing every glimpse of the carefree demeanor he so admired. Years passed, and circumstances conspired to keep them in close proximity, with both attending the same university and even sharing a dormitory. This nearness only served to deepen the protagonist's feelings while simultaneously heightening his awareness of the seemingly insurmountable distance between them.

The story takes an unexpected turn when the protagonist stumbles upon his roommate's hidden talent for writing stories online. This discovery leads him down a path of subtle digital stalking, creating multiple accounts across various platforms to follow the other's online presence without revealing his true identity. Through this virtual window into his beloved's life, the protagonist gains new insights into their thoughts and feelings, including the extent of their dislike for him. Despite the pain this knowledge brings, his love remains steadfast, driving him to greater lengths to care for the other, even if it means enduring their scorn. He begins to notice small details - the way they grumble when waking up early, their morning ritual of deep breaths and encouraging smiles in front of the mirror, and their struggle with finances at the end of each month. These observations only deepen his affection, compelling him to find subtle ways to help and protect, from ensuring they don't miss too many classes to adjusting the air conditioning when they're ill. The protagonist's dedication extends to abusing his position as student council president to obtain his beloved's schedule, allowing him to inconspicuously check on their whereabouts. This delicate balance of care and distance continues until a chance encounter during a late-night study session reveals a potential shift in his roommate's sexual orientation. The discovery reignites hope in the protagonist's heart, only for it to be quickly dashed by the other's apparent desire to distance themselves further.

After six long years of silent love and internal monologue, the story reaches its climax in a moment of raw vulnerability. Pushed to his emotional limits by years of perceived hatred and the recent glimmer of hope, the protagonist finally confesses his feelings. He does so not with the expectation of reciprocation, but with the intention of finally freeing himself from the burden of his unrequited love. To his immense surprise and joy, his confession is met not with rejection, but with acceptance and the promise of a chance at love. The floodgates of emotion burst open as they embrace, years of pent-up feelings flowing freely between them. In this moment of newfound happiness, the protagonist's thoughts turn to the simple joys now within his reach - the ability to openly care for and support the person he has loved from afar for so long. As they stand there, holding each other close, the protagonist realizes that his six years of silent devotion have not been in vain. Instead, they have laid the foundation for a relationship built on deep understanding and genuine care. With hearts full of hope and the promise of a shared future, they step forward into a new chapter of their lives, ready to face whatever challenges may come, together.