Nametags

Chapter 18

       I told Jadee about the kiss at church on Sunday. She was crazy about us. I didn't give her every detail, just simply "Tony and I kissed". The whole details where to private to share. I wanted to keep it between us. Just alive in my heart. She promised me that she wouldn't spread the word until I permitted her to. Then I texted Tony for hours under the safety of my vent. I had to admit that i was feeling like somewhat of a new person since the kiss. Before, I cared so much what other people thought of me, that I'd rather fade into the shadows than have friends. Now, it seemed like Tony had an aura of confidence that rubbed off on other people. I was still an socially awkward introvert, but i had my circle of friends.

Jadee.

Valentina.

Tony.

I was okay around them. I was happy.

          At school on Monday, Tony and I couldn't stop glancing at each other. Look, catch the other looking, blush, look away, repeat. So finally, I stopped at his locker at free time. The halls where mostly bare, just an occasional teacher or kid strolling around in between classes. When he saw me he smiled and pulled me into an unexpected kiss. It was amazing, of course, but it startled me! We where in the middle of the hallway! I pulled away. "Tony! Why did you do that?" He looked confused. "why not?" I looked around, embarrassed. "I havn't told anyone yet!" He smiled warmly. "It's ok, Cherry! We are all alone! And anyway, why would we hide it? It's ok to have a boyfriend in High School." So I was his girlfriend! He said it himself! "Yeah, I guess you are right. And you are the best kisser in Singbed." He smiled. "You shure?" "I dunno." I joked. "Why don't you remind me what it feels like." He chuckled. "Alright" He snuck his fingers onto my waist and kissed me. It was so freeing. It lifted my spirits right up. "Now that was unforgettable!" I said when he stopped. "Hey, I was thinking I could maybe meet your family?" Tony asked. I was shocked!

"My family? Um..."

"Whats wrong?"

"They just- Don't do well with personal space. I don't think it would be good. Yet."

"Ok, then how about meeting my family?"

"Oh, okay! That sounds great! When?"

"How about after school today?"

I looked down, embarrassed. "Sorry, I can't."

"Why not?"

"Well-"

"You are grounded, arn't you. Past curview, right?" He said in a teasing tone.

"How did you know?"

"I'm grounded, too. But you where worth it." He winked.

"So next week?"

"Next week. At least I'll see you at school!"

"Yeah."

The bell rang.

"I'll see you later!"

I kissed him on the cheek right before kids started to fill the hallway.

"See you, Cherry!"

I left for last period.