Friends • E.D.

seventeen

The drive to the mall seemed to last for an eternity, and there was little to no talk between us. I was numb at this point. I didn’t feel bad or guilty, but I didn’t feel good either. I didn’t want Ethan to leave, yet it felt weird for him to stay. All of these feelings should have been making me sick yet...I was just too numb.

We walked side by side, still not much conversation between us.

I peered over at Ethan out of the corner of my eye. He was wearing his Thrasher hoodie, his shoulders raised against the cold. His hands were deep in his pockets, as they usually were, and he sported a tighter pair of black sweatpants that showed off just how thicc he really was. A booty like that could really put any girl to shame. He rocked another pair of old black vans, and a dark red beanie that proudly showed off his tiny wings.

Despite being numb, I admit he looked really fucking good.

The man had style.

I felt like I was deep in his shadow. How could a girl like me ever match up to a guy like him? I’d thrown on a baggy pair of dark grey sweatpants, a loose PINK shirt underneath my favorite jean jacket coat, and I was wearing freaking slippers that thankfully passed as shoes. I’d also just thrown my hair in a messy bun, letting flyaways act as they pleased. I didn’t deserve to even be standing beside a guy like Ethan.

Once inside he turned his head towards me, brushing his arm against mine as he sniffed.

“You look cute.” He said softly, shoulders still raised.

I smiled shyly, tucking some hair behind my ear.

“You’re lying.” I replied, keeping my head low.

“You’re right, I am. You’re fucking beautiful.”

I froze where I was, my eyes locked on him. He walked a few more feet before realizing I wasn’t by his side, instantly turning to face me. He smirked as he held out his hand for me, nodding forward to continue.

I felt my cheeks flush and my chest tighten. Finally, a sign of life. Making my way towards him, I placed my hand in his, his fingers wrapping securely around mine.