The rest of the school day felt… different.
Maybe it was because Emma and I had stopped pretending that nothing was happening between us. Maybe it was the way she glanced at me in class, the way our conversations felt easier, or how her friends had started giving us those teasing looks.
Whatever it was, it felt like we were on the edge of something.
But neither of us had said it out loud yet.
---
The Walk Home
After school, Emma and I walked together again, just like yesterday. This time, we didn't talk as much. It wasn't awkward—it was just comfortable.
At one point, she glanced at me. "You know… I don't think I've ever seen you this quiet before."
I smirked. "Maybe I'm just enjoying the moment."
She smiled, looking ahead. "It's nice, isn't it?"
I turned to her. "What is?"
She hesitated, as if choosing her words carefully. "This. Us. Just… whatever this is."
My heart skipped a beat. "Yeah. It really is."
For a second, it felt like she wanted to say more. Like we were one sentence away from finally admitting what we both already knew.
But then, just as quickly, she let out a small laugh and shook her head. "Look at us, getting all sentimental."
I chuckled. "Blame the fresh air."
She nudged me playfully. "I'll blame you."
And just like that, the moment passed.
But I wasn't disappointed. Because if there was one thing I was sure of now, it was this—whatever was happening between us, it wasn't just in my head.
It was real.
And sooner or later, one of us was going to say it out loud.
---
Leo and Matt's Never-Ending Teasing
That night, as expected, my phone blew up.
Leo: Okay, spill. Are you guys dating yet or nah?
Matt: Bro, at this point, it's embarrassing. Just ask her out already.
I sighed, shaking my head with a smirk.
Me: You guys are the worst.
Leo: And yet, we're right.
Matt: You're welcome.
I groaned, tossing my phone onto my bed.
But as much as I hated to admit it… they were right.
I had to figure out where this was going.
And soon.