finding you

fourteen

"Uhh." I say, immediately starting to panic. What if he sees that I was crying? He probably would think I'm such a freak. He probably does think that already.

He looks down at me and his eyes soften. Somehow, his presence is comforting right now.

"Are you okay?" He asks quietly.

He is standing close enough where I have to look up to see him. What do I say? Oh my gosh.

He looks at me and I can't seem to pull my gaze away from his. He looks kind and honestly concerned for me.

I can't help but feel a little skeptical about that.

I give him a nod and a fake smile, hoping it will convince him. But that's just not likely.

He can see right through me. I know he can.

"He left. I just wanted to check on you."

Wait... what? Brock left?

"Brock did?"

"Yes."

Relief floods through me but only for a moment. He still embarrassed me in front of everyone. That's not going to change.

I know that I should speak up-try to explain myself in any way possible. I want to tell Rhys why I don't like Brock.

But he won't get it.

Our eyes meet and for a moment my mind clears. For a moment, I'm not thinking about anything. It's quiet.

Peaceful.

Suddenly, his hand lifts up and touches the bandage that's on my forehead. I flinch at the contact and look away quickly. His eyes flash with something, making me worry a little.

"Hey..." He breathes, stopping my breathing completely. "You're shaking."

"I...my head is fine." I stammer.

I'm not really sure if we're even talking about my head. My hands are starting to get clammy and I bet my face is red with heat while I panic to find more words to say. I have to say something else. What the hell. Why do I not know how to talk to this boy?

Bloody hell.

"Rhys?"

"Mm?" He says, still looking at me. His hand is down at his side now and he's a little farther away from me than he was.

Gosh, he really is so beautiful this close. Like more beautiful. Oh boy, Theo. Say something you freak.

"Thank you."

I don't really even remember planning to say that. I just... did.

I watch him regard me closely before answering.

"For...?"

"Everything. Taking me out on the water. Tubing... getting me this bandage." I touch my head, making him smile. I look down for a moment. "And Brock."

I wasn't planning on saying that last part. But I did.

He looks as if he's about to say something but I cut him off quick.

"I had a lot of fun today, anyways. I just... wanted to tell you that. It's been awhile."

"Since you've had fun?" He raises his eyebrow and I immediately regret my words.

"I..." Don't know what the hell to say right now. "No... well yes. It's been awhile since I've had fun in Growers." I say honestly. It's the truth.