t school, her thoughts drifting back to Jason. The way he'd smiled at her, the little moments of silence they share

into her thoughts. Jason was still Jason-the charming, popular guy with a reputation. Was she just one of

ext from him that put her mind

Friday? Thought we could grab dinner. It

sage for a few seconds

s great. Where do

this pizza place downtow

But to Emma, it felt like something more. And yet, she couldn't shak

earlier in the day and had given her the usual encouraging pep talk, but Emma wasn't sure if she could settle the storm ins

e where the dim lighting and chatter created an atmosphere of comfort, yet also a slight nervous ex

I'm here. Come on i

in spreading across his face when he saw her. He stood up as she walked over, pulling

where no one else could interrupt the growing connection between them. They talked about their favorite TV shows, how th

e, leaning back in his seat. "Like, after graduation? I mean, I

I've thought about it. I guess I'm not sure where I want to go yet

people just go along with the next step because it's expected. But sometim

they were both standing at the edge of someth

sitation. "You ready to go?" he asked, standing up

a warmth spread throu

he city around them. The silence between them felt comfor

turning to her with a smile. "I real

ile, feeling her he

reached the end of the street, where they'd have to part ways, Jason turned toward her. He

ike this, but I think... I think I'm glad we're doing this. Whatever this i

ll week crash into her. "I like you too," she said, almost br

like the entire world around them disappeared. There was

said with a light chuckle, breaking

r smile spreadi

ible line tonight, one that made everything feel more real. She didn't know where this would go-what would