Fellow Travelers
As I savor the ice cream, a question slips out. "When did our paths take such unexpected turns?"
I had convinced myself that consuming these calories tonight wouldn't matter; after all, I'll run it off tomorrow. So here I am, accepting the treat Romeo offered, betraying my diet.
I am sorry, Gaby.
"What?" Romeo looks up, setting aside his ginger ale, which he'd been downing with gusto.
"I'm just reflecting on how we started as strangers, then quickly became adversaries, bickering constantly. We toyed with the idea of dating, which fizzled before it began, leading us to a truce and friendship. And now, here we are, sharing snacks en route to regionals. It's been quite the whirlwind."
He lets out a burp, loud and unapologetic, and I can't help but crinkle my nose in distaste.
Glancing around, I find most of our fellow travelers asleep, a small comfort.
When I peek at Romeo through my lashes, I catch him watching me with an amused grin. We burst into laughter—he's such a rascal.
We spend the night chatting about everything and nothing—some conversations light-hearted, others deeply personal, like Karina's predicament. It feels good to reconnect, or perhaps, to find myself again. I often make hasty decisions regarding Romeo, which I later regret.
His unpredictability is both thrilling and terrifying. I'm compelled to keep my distance, yet his persistent pursuit stokes a fire within me—a fire I shouldn't entertain, not when I'm committed to building something with Zed.
*****
YOU ARE READING
Romeo and Juliet
HumorSHORT CHAPTERS ------ He rips my phone from my hand again and puts it behind him. "Tell me how it works then." "We have to kiss." He looks at me for a few seconds, then grins. I recognize that smile. He's thinking of something mischievous. "A kiss?"...
