SELSO'S Perspective
Selso's mind wandered as he stared out the window, his thoughts drifting to Aya. Their renewed friendship had awakened feelings he couldn't ignore. But guilt gnawed at him, reminding him of the commitments he couldn't escape.
Growing up, Selso's life had been meticulously planned by his parents. His future was predetermined: graduate college, marry his childhood friend, Eliana, and take over the family business. He had resigned himself to this fate.
Eliana was kind and beautiful, with piercing green eyes and raven-black hair. They had grown up together, exploring the city's hidden gems. Selso admired her, but his feelings never transcended friendship.
College brought newfound freedom, and Selso reveled in it. That's where he met Aya – vibrant, intelligent, and captivating. Her laughter infectious, her smile radiant.
As Selso and Aya's friendship deepened, he found himself drawn to her quirky sense of humor, her passion for photography, and her unwavering empathy. For the first time, he questioned his arranged engagement.
Eliana's visits became a harsh reminder of his obligations. Selso felt trapped, torn between duty and desire. Aya's presence ignited a spark within him, making him wonder what life would be like with someone who truly understood him.
One evening, as Selso and Aya studied together, their hands touched. The spark was undeniable. Selso's heart skipped a beat. He knew he couldn't deny his feelings any longer.
But what about Eliana? And his parents' expectations? The weight of tradition and family honor pressed upon him.
Selso confided in his closest friend, Alex. "I'm torn, man. I don't love Eliana, not like I should."
Alex's expression turned serious. "Follow your heart, Selso. Life's too short for regrets."
Selso knew Alex was right. He needed to confront his parents, to explain his true feelings. But fear of disappointment and familial duty held him back.
As graduation loomed closer, Selso's anxiety intensified. Eliana's hints about their future together made him squirm. Aya's presence remained a constant reminder of what he truly desired.
One fateful night, Selso turned to Aya with a question: "Do you believe in second chances?" His heart hung in the balance, awaiting her response.
AYA
Aya's heart skipped a beat as Selso's eyes locked onto hers, his voice barely above a whisper. "Do you believe in second chances?"
She felt like she was drowning in the depths of his gaze. What did he mean? Was he referring to their friendship or something more?
Aya's mind raced, memories flashing: their laughter, late-night conversations and the heartbreaking rejection. Hadn't she already given him a second chance by agreeing to remain friends?
"Selso, what do you mean?" Aya asked, her voice cautious.
He leaned in, his face inches from hers. "I mean, do you think people can change their minds? Realize their true feelings?"
Aya's pulse quickened. "What are you trying to say, Selso?"
Their faces were so close that Aya could feel his warm breath. Time seemed to stand still.
"Maybe I was blind," Selso whispered. "Maybe I didn't see what was right in front of me."
Aya's heart soared, but fear tempered her excitement. "Selso, don't play games with me. Please."
Selso's eyes searched hers, sincerity shining through. "No games, Aya. I mean it. I think I made a mistake letting you go."
Aya's breath caught. Was this real? Did Selso truly feel something for her?
"What about Eliana?" Aya asked, her voice barely audible.
Selso's expression turned somber. "That's complicated. I—"
Aya's hands instinctively rose, stopping him. "Don't, Selso. You're engaged. I won't be a part of ruining someone's life."
Selso's face contorted in anguish. "Aya, please listen—"
But she stood up, her heart racing. "No, Selso. I deserve better. I deserve someone who's truly free to love me."
With that, Aya turned and walked away, leaving Selso's words hanging in the air.
~