34th Kiss

After a few tense moments, I gently pushed him away, feeling a rush of embarrassment flooding through me.

"I-I'm sorry," I stammered awkwardly, taking a step back. He mirrored my actions, putting some distance between us.

"No, it's my fault," he apologized, his tone remorseful. Without another word, he pressed down on the gas pedal, and the car lurched forward. Instinctively, I reached up to touch my neck, feeling the heat rising to my cheeks. Why did things suddenly become so awkward between us? He didn't even glance back at me, his focus solely on the road ahead. I couldn't decipher his thoughts, so I lapsed into silence as well.

We finally pulled up at a small shopping mall. Without waiting for him to open the door, I hastily exited the car. Offering him a small smile as he followed suit, I noticed his subtle grin in return. Together, we made our way inside.

***