Feeling the gaze of Lylia and Ylva, I glanced back at them with a quizzical expression. Lylia broke the silence with a mischievous grin.

"Axel, we were just wondering... when are you going to confess your feelings to Evelyn?" she asked playfully.

My face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and surprise. Luna and Ellie exchanged knowing glances, while Evelyn, who had returned to the group, tried to stifle a giggle. Ylva looked on with a hint of curiosity.

"I... well, um..." I stumbled over my words, not expecting such a direct question.

Evelyn, always one to enjoy teasing me, chimed in, "Oh, come on, Axel. Don't keep us waiting forever. You know I can read your thoughts, right?"

My embarrassment grew as everyone laughed, but I couldn't help but smile. Despite the playful teasing, their camaraderie and acceptance filled me with warmth.

I took a deep breath and mustered up the courage to respond. "Well, Evelyn, I... I care about you deeply. You've become an important part of my life