Confessions

Chapter Twenty-Seven

...Henry...

I didn't care how little of a chance there was that she would round the corner and climb the oak tree. I still waited for her every day, and I would continue to... as long as it takes...
After school I did exactly as I had for the last two weeks. I arrived home and dropped my bag at the base of the tree. Then I climbed to the top and waited. I waited for hours everyday. I would cling onto whatever shred of hope I could find.
I sat on our favorite branch of the oak tree and replayed today's interactions over and over in my head. I think it was getting better... I'm pretty sure she glanced at me in English today...
As I sat, lost in my own little world, I heard a sharp crack of a twig nearby. I shot my head up and scanned the area. Could it be? I heard the crunch of leave, someone was definitely coming closer. I stared off into the distance, waiting for someone to round the corner. At last, the short girl turned the corner and approached the tree cautiously.
"Hey Cayla..." I said, trying to mask the disappointment in my voice. She gave a small squeal, having not seen me before I spoke.
"Oh... there you are... Erm... Do you mind?" She asked...
"No, come on up." I gestured towards the branch next to me.
"Actually I was kind of hoping you would come down..."
"Oh... yeah, sure..." I hopped down and turned to face my girlfriend. "Hi...
"I think you have some explaining to do..." She crossed her arms. I should have been expecting this...
"I'm really sorry... I-"
"No..." she cut me off. I looked at her confused. "Not to me..."
A wave of realization washed over me...
"Do you love her?" Cayla asked. I nodded my head, bitting my cheek. "Then go."
I turned to leave, but not before spinning back around and saying, "I'm sorry..."
"It hurts a bit... but I'll be okay..." Cayla smiled. I rushed over and hugged her.
"Thank you."