(im)patience

Chapter 6

[Sean]

Things slightly changed recently. We never discussed about that whole intense and odd scene from a couple of days ago. It was all water under the bridge or so we tried to act like. The air between us was somewhat heavier and constantly tensed. Like something would erupt if we weren't careful enough.

The jokes and goofiness were still there, things were getting weird when physical contact was involved. We were suddenly very aware of each other's gestures and movements. I saw her slightly flinch sometimes and my hands were lingering a little too long on her. It was like I subconsciously needed to make sure she's there.

That tingling sensation we had when dancing together turned into a full out flame. It was burning and consuming all my energy. And the only way to tame it was to get closer to her. A swift touch, a brush of hands were the only things keeping me sane.

I just ran to my room to get my phone charger and was about to enter the garage again when I heard a soft hum. I stopped in the doorway and watched her quietly. I could say by the random notes that she was making up the whole melody. Her goofy moves following along made it even more hilarious.

I felt my lips go upwards in a genuine smile and decided to sneak up on her. I tiptoed behind her and as she felt my presence and turned around, I lifted her over my shoulder.

"Nooo! Sean, put me down" She started screaming and laughing wildly while hitting my back with her small fists.

I obeyed her demand and threw her on a thick mat we were usually rehearsing the lifts on. Apparently, she was clinging onto the back of my shirt, 'cause I fell along with her.

"My hand, auch" I heard her squeaking in pain and immediately jumped off of her. She was shaking her arm frantically, whimpering.

"Stop it. Let me see" I took her clenched fist and examined it attentively. I ran my thumb over her knuckles hoping she would loosen her grip. Her skinny fingers relaxed into my palm. Thankfully, there was no sign of swelling or redness.

"I think you're gonna survive this time, Rice" I assured her and planted a small kiss on the back of her hand.

She didn't pull back, but met my eyes with a serious and deep stare. Time stopped for a few moments, encircling us in an invisible bubble. Her big eyes implored mine with such a mesmerizing intensity, I intertwined our fingers by reflex.

"We gotta stop whatever this is" She mouthed weakly, moving her gaze to our hands.

I shook my head determined, not ready to let the moment end. She tried to withdraw her fingers from mine, but I tightened my clasp.

"Can you stop thinking and be here with me for a little longer?" I nearly begged her.

I didn't know what I was pleading for. The only think I was aware of was how overwhelming her closeness was.

She was resting on her back, her head tilted so that she could face me. Meanwhile, I was leaning on my side with our fingers still intertwined between us. She didn't reject my prior request, so I took it as a tacit acceptance.

I started playing with her small fingers distracted. My soul was swirling in peace and I felt so light-headed from the small gesture. I never doubted us, our friendship or craft. To be honest, I trusted in the two of us more than myself alone. Everything has been about her for a long while now.

Kaycee stirred a little beside me and raised her right hand to move away some hair from my face. I closed my eyes, savoring her tenderness.

We never forced or rushed things. Since day one, it all came naturally. We built this incredible friendship brick by brick, moment by moment, always supporting and having each other's backs. And if we were to create something more onto this steady foundation, I was all about doing what feels right for us. And hell, does it feel good.

I've always been the type of person that goes with the flow. Life takes you on her track and all you have to do is choose your way at cross paths. And all my decisions brought me here and now.

I looked down at Kaycee and cupped her cheek in contemplation.

I loved thinking about us as two magnets that were pulled together by faith. Once we got into each other's attraction field there was no turning back. Why fight it now...

I watched her closely, memorizing over and over again every little detail of her being. I licked my lips in anticipation and leaned in subconsciously.

Her palm bumped in a rush against my chest, stopping me from getting closer with a whispered "Don't".

I got into a sitting position, putting some distance between us in the process. Kaycee did the same, avoiding my gaze. She looked down at her hands spread uncomfortably in her lap, her cheeks blushed.

"Why ?" was the only question worth asking.

Silence. Deafening remorseful silence.

I rubbed my eyes, instant regret washing over me. Bad choices lead you on some paths it's impossible to come back from and I think I just went the wrong way.

"I love you. Since when is that not enough?" I heard her soft voice saying in a puzzled tone.

I half smiled, feeling a bittersweet taste in my mouth.

"Since I wish you meant it in a different way." 

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[Author's note]

*clears throat* It is beyond me to properly describe the tension and chemistry between them, but there's that I guess. I hope I'll be able to update the next chapter way faster than I did this one, lol. Thank you again for reading and for all the support, it really means a lot. See ya !