The Reasons Why I Need You

12. Defy the Stereotypes

     "Emma," a voice calls out for me as I enter the exit of the fair. I ignore and continue my way.
     "Emma," the voice says again but this time grabbing my arm.
     "What," I snap turning around and pulling my arm away.
     "What was that about," Jared asks me.
     "I- I tried to get you to angry."
     "Why?"
     "Why!? Don't you see what you do to me? You annoy me everyday with your sweet talk and stupid nicknames. I ask you to stop and you don't. You make me do things I don't want to do-"
     "Emma, I never make you do anything."
     "What!? No, you can't blame me for all the things you make me do."
     "I'm not... What I'm trying to say is you can leave whenever you want to but you don't. You always eventually give in.
      See I think you like me. You may not realize it yet but you do. You assume that just because I dress in black and wear leather jackets that I'm some heartbreaker player dude. But I'm not. I'm not talking to you for the chase. I'm not saying things to you just to get your heart racing. I'm saying these things because I genuinely like you."
       He has left me silent. I don't know how to take this. I completely judged him before getting to know him. That makes me feel like a complete bitch.
       I look him in the eyes and say the words I'd never think I'd say to him. "I'm sorry Jared."
       He looks surprised for a second before he seems to take it in. "Can we start over Emma?"
      "Sure, as long as you don't call me sweetheart or whatever."
      "Hi, my name's Jared. Even though I look tough and heartless it's only my inner punk look. Besides that I'm completely caring and patient. What's your name?"
       "Hi, my name's Emma. I tend to judge people based off of first look but then I deeply regret it later. I'm sorry if I offend you at any point but I'm only speaking what my mind believes is true."
       "So will you go with me to prom?"
       "Yes, but as friends," I say trying to spread the point to him that I have no interest.
       "Fine. But don't get mad if you get a kiss from me that night."
        "Jared."
        "Okay fine. I shouldn't have said anything."
        "Jared!"
        "Hey, I'm only speaking the truth," he says winking at me.