"I Didn't See This"

Sorry Connie

    Steven approached the house with a bounce in his step. After all these years he was able to show Lars how he truly felt about him. Even better was the fact that he loves him back. Sure what Lars had said back then still hurt but he could get past it. Lars had no idea how those words had weighted on him. 

    "Guys, I'm back!" he called out. Pearl was making some sandwiches. "Oh. Hello Steven." she placed one on a plate and headed towards him. "There's a voice message for you." she handed him the plate. "Really? Thanks Pearl." the gem smiled. "Oh don't mention it. Also I hope you used protection." he choked on the bread. How did she—G a r n e t.

   He pressed a button to play back the message. "Okay, I'm gonna make this quick. Can you meet me by the pier? I hope you're not busy. Sorry I haven't been visiting often. Mom told me not to because of what happened with Malachite. Well I hope you get this." beep.

  The wind blew through her short hair. She stood looking out at the scenery. The ocean reflected a bright purple. The sun had semi set. Soon she would have to leave. Would Steven come?

  "Connie!" She turned and saw her best friend run towards her. She smiled and ran to meet him. They embraced in a hug, perfume mixing with laundry detergent. Both fought the urge to cry. "How have you been?" she asked. "I've been good. What about you?" "Space school is hard but I'll live." The two began to walk along the boardwalk. 

  "What did you call me out here for?" he asked. She averted her gaze to the ocean finding it very interesting all of a sudden. "I have to tell you something." His smile fell. "Our friendship is over?" the boy asked sadly. "No Steven, that'll never happen." she reassured him. "Then what is it?" she turned towards him. "I like you Steven." 

  He stared at her, shocked. So many things were racing through his mind. When did she like him? How long has she liked him? And why didn't she say anything. She never mentioned a crush before.

   And here she was, smiling and waiting for a response.

   "I'm sorry." she blinked. "What are you sorry for?" he looked her in the eye. "I'm sorry Connie but I love someone else." a pained expression crossed her face. "When?" her voice was dejected. "Some time ago. I'm really sorry." she slumped her shoulders and smiled.

   "It's okay. You're taken and there's nothing I can do about. Even if I could, I won't. I'm not gonna ruin your relationship. If you're happy then I respect that." the half gem was surprised by her words. "Wait, you're not angry?" she thought for second. "I'm upset but no, not angry. May I ask who it is though?" He blushed at her question. "Oops. Too private?" she apologized. "No, it's just... I don't know how you're gonna take this." he scratched the back of his head. "It'll be fine." she held his hand. "So who is it?" "Lars."

   Connie gasped. "Are you serious?" he nodded. "I've shipped you forever!" "Huh?" "Wow. Mind-blown. Please let me be your Maid-of-Honor." "We're not-" "Thanks Steven!" she kissed his cheek then raced off. Steven stood there, bewildered. Did she approve? Also what did she mean by 'shipped you forever'?