Lost Treasures

Sixteen

ASPEN

After small group, I pulled my sister aside. "Hey, can we talk?"

"Sure. About what?" she replied, seeming surprised that I wanted to speak with her.

I glanced around, looking to see if anyone important was around. Like, for instance, Zephaniah. I spotted him chatting with a friend and quickly darted out of sight.

"Who are you hiding from? Aspen!"

"Shh. And no one. I just don't need everyone getting up in our business." I pulled her by the arm until we were outside the chapel. We headed over to the fountain and sat down.

"So, what is this about?" Eden asked.

I took a deep breath. "I just wanted to apologize. You know, for the way I've been acting. I've been far away from God, and I think I took it out on you. You and Levi were just so excited for camp, and seeing you so enthusiastic about God was frustrating. Not because it was wrong, but because I didn't have that excitement myself..."

"What about now?"

"For starters, I'm really glad I came to this camp. I think this Reckless theme is going to be good for me. I took a lot of notes tonight, and I'm actually...kind of excited for tomorrow."

"That's good! Just...make sure you're not just falling in love with the camp. It's Jesus we're trying to focus on."

I stopped, in awe of her. Who knew she was so wise?

"That's a good reminder. And I think I really am focusing on Him this time. I just want to learn more and more about him, and make up for lost time with him."

"Glad to hear it. Was there anything else?"

"No, that was it." I suddenly remembered Zephaniah. "Well, there is one thing..."

"Okay," she said hesitantly, drawing out the word. "What?"

"What's going on with you and Joey? I mean, do you like him?"

She blushed at the mention of his name. "Yeah. He's just so nice to me! We hung out, like, ALL of free time."

"That's sweet. But, are you sure he's genuine?"

"Of course. What makes you say that?"

"Nothing, I've just heard that he might not be all you think he is."

"From who?" she asked, an accusatory tone in her voice and on her face.

"I can't say. Just trust me on this. Be careful."

"Well I am careful."

"Okay, okay. Just don't forget to take your own advice, about focusing on God. He's the reason we're all here."

"I know, I know. Boys just make camp all the more fun!"

I laughed. "Yeah, I guess they do."

"Ooo, do you liiiiike someone?" she said in a sing-song voice.

I debated whether or not to tell her about Micah, from the pink team. I didn't know if we'd ever hang out again, so I decided against it. "No, not really."

"Oh come on. You don't even think anyone's cute?"

"I didn't say that," I said mysteriously, and giggled because I knew I was annoying her. She hated not knowing who I had a crush on!

"Ugh, Aspen, you can't do that to me!"

"Yes, I can," I said, sticking my nose up in the air and beginning to walk away.

"Meanie!"

I laughed. It was good for the soul.

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A/N: Here's a poll for you to answer in the comments... Who should Aspen have a crush on; Micah or Zacharias (not to be confused with Zephaniah, who likes Eden)?