The skinny girl

Chapter 6

New Beginnings

Tuesday morning arrived, and Emma woke up with a smile that felt permanent. The memory of her first kiss with Ethan replayed in her mind like a favorite song. She couldn't help but giggle as she recalled the way he'd blushed, his cheeks almost as red as the school colors they'd worn at the game.

As she got ready, Emma's mom peeked into her room. "You're awfully chipper this morning. Did you finally win the lottery or something?" she teased, leaning against the doorframe.

Emma laughed, brushing her hair back. "Not quite, but I did have a pretty amazing weekend."

Her mom raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Do tell!"

Emma hesitated, not wanting to spill all the details just yet. "Well, I went to the football game and... um, I kissed someone."

Her mom's eyes widened, a mix of surprise and delight. "Kissed someone? Who? Is it serious?"

"It's Ethan," Emma admitted, her cheeks flushing. "We've been hanging out a lot, and things just... happened."

Her mom grinned, clearly pleased. "Ethan, huh? I like him. He seems like a nice boy. Just remember, communication is key in relationships."

"Thanks, Mom. I'll keep that in mind," Emma replied, rolling her eyes playfully.

After a quick breakfast, Emma headed to school, her heart racing with anticipation. As she walked through the crowded hallways, she spotted Ethan leaning against his locker, chatting with a couple of friends. He looked up and met her gaze, a warm smile spreading across his face.

"Hey, you!" he called out, making her heart flutter.

"Hey!" Emma replied, trying to sound casual but feeling giddy inside.

"Did you finish that history project?" he asked, his tone teasing.

"Ugh, don't remind me! I was up until midnight trying to make it look decent. I think I might have accidentally glued my fingers together," Emma joked, holding up her hands dramatically.

Ethan laughed, his eyes sparkling. "Well, if you need a rescue, I'm your guy. I'm great at saving damsels in distress."

"Only if the damsel promises to share her snacks," Emma shot back, grinning.

As the day went on, they exchanged playful banter between classes, their connection growing stronger with each shared laugh. During lunch, they sat together, surrounded by friends. Lily was animatedly recounting a story about a mishap in gym class.

"And then I totally tripped over my own feet and landed right in the middle of the basketball court! Everyone was staring!" Lily exclaimed, her eyes wide.

Emma burst out laughing. "Classic! You should have done a dramatic bow afterward."

"Right? I could have been the star of the show!" Lily replied, pretending to take a bow.

Ethan leaned closer to Emma, whispering, "I think you'd be a much better star than Lily."

Emma felt her cheeks heat up. "Maybe we can start a talent show. I'll be the headliner, and you can be my backup dancer."

"Backup dancer? I don't know if the world is ready for that," Ethan teased, winking at her.

As the lunch bell rang, Emma felt a sense of contentment wash over her. She and Ethan walked to their next class, their hands brushing against each other, sending sparks of excitement through her.

Later that evening, Emma decided to call her mom to share how her day went. "Hey, Mom! Just wanted to let you know that Ethan and I are officially a thing now!" she said, her voice bubbling with excitement.