How could I find the right words to express what was swirling in my mind? Confessing wasn't something I was sure I'm ready for, I don't plan on facing rejection again.

"What's wrong?" he asked again, his question bringing me back to reality and making me more scared.

"There's that man over there. Do you know him?" I pointed to a distant figure, hoping to steer away from the subject of my emotions.

"Would you tell me what's on your mind. Don't avoid it with other distractions. I simply want to know what's bothering you," he replied, his tone as cold as the wind.

Taking a moment to gather my...