Chapter 4

7 3 4
                                    

The Almost Confession

The week following their day at the park felt like a whirlwind for Emma. She was riding high on the excitement of her blossoming friendship with Ethan. They exchanged texts daily, filled with laughter and shared memes, and she found herself looking forward to seeing him at school more than anything else.

As Saturday approached, Emma's anticipation grew. They had planned to watch a movie at Ethan's house, and she could hardly contain her excitement. She spent the morning picking out the perfect outfit—something comfortable yet cute. After trying on several combinations, she settled on a soft sweater and her favorite jeans, feeling confident and cozy.

When she arrived at Ethan's house, the sun was beginning to set, casting a warm golden hue over everything. He greeted her at the door with that familiar smile that made her heart flutter.

"Hey, you made it!" Ethan said, stepping aside to let her in.

"Thanks for having me!" Emma replied, stepping into the cozy living room filled with the scent of popcorn.

They settled onto the couch, a bowl of popcorn between them, and started the movie. Emma tried to focus on the film, but her mind kept drifting to Ethan. He looked so relaxed, his dark hair slightly tousled, and she couldn't help but steal glances at him.

About halfway through the movie, Ethan paused it. "Hey, do you want to grab some drinks? I think we have soda in the fridge," he suggested, standing up.

"Sure! I'll help," Emma said, eager to keep the conversation flowing.

As they walked to the kitchen, Emma felt a wave of nervous energy. She could sense that something was different tonight; the air felt charged with unspoken words. 

They rummaged through the fridge, Ethan retrieving two cans of soda.

"Here you go," he said, handing her one. Their fingers brushed, and Emma felt a jolt of electricity.

"Thanks!" she said, trying to keep her voice steady.

They returned to the couch, and as the movie resumed, Emma noticed Ethan glancing at her more often, his expression thoughtful. The tension in the air was palpable, and Emma felt her heart race.

"Hey, can I ask you something?" Ethan said suddenly, pausing the movie again.

"Sure! What's up?" Emma asked, her curiosity piqued.Ethan hesitated, his brow furrowing slightly. "I've just been thinking about... us. About how much fun we've been having together."

Emma's heart raced at the prospect of where this conversation might lead. "Yeah, I've really enjoyed hanging out with you too," she replied, trying to keep her tone light.

Ethan looked down, fiddling with the can in his hands. "I just... I feel like there's something special here, you know?" he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Emma's breath caught in her throat. 

Was he really about to confess? 

She felt a rush of hope mixed with anxiety. "I feel that too," she said softly, her heart pounding.

But just as Ethan opened his mouth to speak, the doorbell rang, interrupting the moment. They both jumped, and Emma felt a rush of disappointment.

"Hang on, I'll get it," Ethan said, standing up and heading to the door.

Emma watched him go, her heart sinking. Why did timing always seem to betray them? As Ethan opened the door, Emma could hear the muffled voices of his younger siblings, who had come to join them.

The skinny girlWhere stories live. Discover now