Today was one of those scorching days where the sun just blazes down on everything, especially the river Xexou. My friends and I were there, splashing around, having the time of our lives, all carefree and bursting with energy. I thought it’d be bold to swim without any underwear. It felt exhilarating, like I was really embracing the moment. But then, just as we were floating and laughing, something shifted in the vibe. I could feel their eyes on me—those boys who had been my buddies just moments before. Suddenly, their gazes changed, turned into something I wasn’t ready for. Each look lingered a bit too long, and I started to feel that creeping vulnerability. It was like my body had become this open book, and they were reading every single line of my nakedness. It was ridiculous, really. I mean, this was just part of being a boy, right? Yet here I was, feeling completely exposed and embarrassed. The laughter that used to ring out felt different now, like it was aimed right at me and my awkwardness. Each chuckle seemed like a reminder of how out of place I felt.








