I Like You

**Title: I Like You** As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the quiet town, Souta and Takeru found themselves sitting on the old wooden bench by the lake, their laughter echoing in the serene evening air. Years of friendship had woven a bond between them that was unbreakable, a connection that transcended words. Takeru, his eyes reflecting the fiery hues of the sunset, turned to Souta with a look of determination. "Souta, there's something I've been meaning to tell you," he began, his voice steady but filled with unspoken emotions. Souta, usually laid-back and carefree, felt a flutter of anticipation in his chest. He knew this moment was different, that something was about to change between them. "What is it, Takeru?" he asked, his tone laced with curiosity. With a deep breath, Takeru took Souta's hand in his, his touch sending a jolt of electricity through Souta's veins. "I've liked you for as long as I can remember," Takeru confessed, his gaze unwavering. "More than just friends, Souta. I've fallen in love with you." Souta's heart skipped a beat, his mind racing to process Takeru's words. The world stood still around them, the only sound being the gentle lapping of the lake against the shore. In that moment, the line between friendship and something more blurred, opening a door to a new chapter neither of them had expected. And as the stars began to twinkle in the darkening sky, Souta and Takeru's laughter merged with the night, carrying the promise of a love that had been silently blooming between them all along.