**Chapter 6: Pedro's Crush**

Pedro sat across from Jess, his brown eyes locked onto hers as he searched for any sign of mockery or pretension. But all he saw was a warm smile and sparkling eyes that seemed to dance with amusement. "You figured it out," he said, his voice laced with relief, as he let out a slow breath. Jess nodded, her long, curly hair bouncing with the movement. "I did," she said, her voice still smiling. "And I have to say, I'm impressed." Pedro's dark hair was perfectly messy, and his eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled. Pedro chuckled, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. He had been worried that Jess would be embarrassed or annoyed when she found out who he was. But instead, she seemed genuinely interested. "Impressed?" he repeated, his voice rising in query. Jess leaned forward, her eyes shining with curiosity. "Yes, impressed," she said. "I've been listening to your music, and I love it. You're talented, Pedro." Pedro's face flushed with pleasure, and he felt his heart swell with emotion. No one had ever reacted to his music like that before. Most people just recognized him as a member of Here At Last, but Jess seemed to genuinely appreciate his art. As they talked, Pedro couldn't help but notice the way Jess's eyes sparkled when she laughed, or the way her hair fell in soft waves down her back. He felt a pang of attraction, and he knew that he had to confess his feelings to her. "Jess, can I tell you something?" he asked, his voice low and serious. Jess nodded, her eyes never leaving his face. "Of course, what is it?" Pedro took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. "I've had a crush on you since the moment I met you," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. Jess's expression softened, and she reached out to touch his hand. "I had a feeling," she said, her voice playful. "But I didn't know how to bring it up." Pedro's eyes widened in surprise, and he felt a surge of hope. "Really?" he asked, his voice full of excitement. Jess nodded, her smile growing wider. "Yes, really," she said. "I've been enjoying getting to know you, Pedro. And I have to admit, I'm attracted to you too." Pedro's heart soared as he heard her words. He felt like he was walking on air, and he couldn't help but grin from ear to ear. As they sat there, hands touching, Pedro knew that he had found someone special. Someone who appreciated him for who he was, both as a musician and as a person. And he knew that he would do anything to make her happy. "I'm glad we're on the same page," he said, his voice full of emotion. Jess smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Me too," she said. "I think this could be the start of something amazing." Pedro nodded, his heart full of hope and excitement. He knew that he had found his match in Jess, and he couldn't wait to see what the future held for them.