Society expects the choti ladki to be saved. Flip it. Have her save him . Not physically (though that works), but emotionally. Maybe she protects his secret, or she saves him from a social embarrassment. This levels the playing field.
Let me know, and I'll do my best to provide a helpful and respectful response!
If you are looking for examples of this feature in media, it is a staple in young adult (YA) literature, shoujo manga, and coming-of-age films, where the focus is on the sweet, often fleeting nature of childhood or adolescent connections.
Here is a story exploring those delicate, romantic storylines. The Rhythm of Small Things
: Aisha and Rohan start as friends, bonding over their love of literature and music. As they spend more time together, they develop feelings for each other. They face challenges such as dealing with peer pressure, managing their studies, and navigating their first love.