Between Us

First Date Jitters

The buzz of his phone woke Jayden earlier than he'd planned. He groggily reached for it on the nightstand and squinted at the screen. A message from Konner lit up his notifications. 

Konner: Good morning! So... still good for today? 
Konner: No pressure if you're busy, but I'm kind of really excited...

Jayden smiled, already feeling butterflies flutter in his stomach. 

Jayden: Yeah, still good. What's the plan?

It only took seconds for Konner to reply. 

Konner: Thought we could grab coffee at that place downtown? And maybe a walk in the park after?
Jayden: Sounds perfect. What time?
Konner: 11? Too early?
Jayden: No, 11 is great. See you then.

Jayden set his phone down, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves settle over him. He hadn't been on a real date in... well, ever, really. He swung his legs out of bed and began mentally planning his outfit. 

After a quick shower, Jayden stood in front of his closet, debating between casual and slightly more dressed-up. "Not too fancy, not too lazy," he muttered to himself. He settled on a simple black sweater, jeans, and clean white sneakers. As he looked in the mirror, he ran a hand through his hair, wishing it would cooperate just a little more. 

He grabbed his phone and wallet, then headed for the door. But just as he was slipping on his shoes, his Aunt Lydia appeared in the doorway of the living room, a mug of coffee in her hand and a curious look on her face. 

"Where are you off to so early on a Saturday?" she asked, leaning against the doorframe. 

Jayden hesitated, his cheeks warming. "Uh... just meeting a friend." 

Carol's eyebrows shot up. "A friend, huh?" She took a slow sip of her coffee, clearly enjoying this. "And does this friend have a name?" 

Jayden sighed, knowing there was no point in trying to dodge her questions. "Konner. His name's Konner." 

"Oh, Konner." A wide grin spread across her face. "This wouldn't happen to be a date, would it?" 

Jayden groaned, running a hand through his hair. "Maybe," he muttered. 

Lydia laughed, setting her mug down on the counter. "Oh, honey, I'm just teasing. But really, it's about time. You've been smiling at your phone more than usual lately. I'm happy for you." 

"Thanks, I think?" Jayden replied, unable to keep the small smile off his face. 

She stepped closer, adjusting the collar of his sweater. "You look great. Just be yourself, okay? Anyone with half a brain would be lucky to go out with you." 

Jayden smiled softly. "Thanks, Aunt Lydia." 

"Now go knock him dead," she said, shooing him toward the door. "And don't forget to tell me everything when you get back." 

Jayden rolled his eyes but laughed. "We'll see." 

As he walked out into the crisp morning air, Jayden felt a little lighter. The thought of Konner waiting for him was enough to push aside most of his nerves. 

-——————————————————————————

Konner was already at the coffee shop when Jayden arrived. He was sitting at a table by the window, his hands wrapped around a steaming cup of coffee. When he saw Jayden walk in, his face lit up, and he stood, waving him over. 

"Hey," Konner said, his smile warm and a little shy. "You made it." 

"Of course," Jayden replied, feeling his own nerves start to fade. 

They ordered drinks and sat down, the conversation flowing easily as they talked about school, favorite movies, and random stories from their lives. Jayden was surprised at how natural it felt, how comfortable Konner made him. 

After finishing their coffee, they decided to take that walk through the park. The autumn air was cool but refreshing, and the trees were a brilliant mix of red, orange, and gold. 

At one point, Konner stopped walking and turned to face Jayden, his expression suddenly serious. "Hey, so... I know this is kind of a big deal—our first date and all. And I just want to say, I'm really glad it's with you." 

Jayden felt his cheeks heat up, but he smiled. "Me too. This is... nice." 

Konner chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. "Nice, huh? I'll take it." 

Jayden laughed, shoving him lightly. "You know what I mean." 

They continued walking, their hands brushing a few times before Konner finally reached out and took Jayden's hand in his. It was a bold move, but Konner looked so nervous doing it that Jayden couldn't help but smile and squeeze his hand in return. 

The date ended with Konner walking Jayden back to his aunt's house. They lingered on the porch for a moment, neither wanting the day to end. 

"I had a great time," Konner said softly, his gaze locked on Jayden's. 

"Me too," Jayden replied, his voice equally quiet. 

Konner hesitated for a moment, then leaned in and gave Jayden a quick, shy kiss on the cheek. "I'll text you later?" 

Jayden nodded, his heart pounding in his chest. "Yeah, I'd like that." 

As Konner walked away, Jayden stepped inside, closing the door behind him with a soft smile. Carol was waiting in the kitchen, her arms crossed and a knowing grin on her face. 

"So," she said, her voice sing-song. "How was it?" 

Jayden shook his head, laughing as he made his way to his room. "I'm not telling you everything!" 

But he couldn't stop smiling, and Carol just chuckled to herself. It was safe to say that Jayden's first date with Konner had been a success.