One House Behind | ✓

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐬

Shelly

Despite the fact that I was scared, the entire two weeks went by okay. My mind was still going and my heart was racing. But, I was able to focus on school and on Tanner. Everything was going well.

And then Joseph texted. I hadn't expected him to do that. He was a great friend, even though we had our ups and downs after my big secret, and I didn't want anything more with him anymore. His text made my heart flop and I grimaced at it.

Joseph

Hey, can we talk?

Me

yeah

about what?

Joseph

I've been thinking

and I know it's different since everything that's happening now

but I was wondering

if maybe you wanted to go out?

Me

I don't go out anywhere

plus, didn't you and the group already have plans?

Joseph

that's not what I meant

I meant

Shelly, would you go out on a date with me?

I paused. What was I supposed to say? I knew the automatic answer was 'no' because I was with Tanner. My stomach twisted with excitement as the thought of being his girlfriend had flown threw my mind. All I knew was that I had to let him down.

Me

Jo, I can't

Joseph

we don't have to go outside

we could do it in our houses but separate

I've seen some people do that

I figure you'd be more comfortable with that

Me

no Jo

I literally can't

I already have a boyfriend

Joseph

oh

this is awkward

I feel cocky texting it but I thought that you would like me more

Me

I'm sorry

I guess you could say you jumped on the late train

And we haven't talked much since we were put on lockdown

it just would feel weird to suddenly go out, you know?

Joseph

Yeah

I guess so

I left him alone after that. How had he developed feelings within that short span? School had barely begun, we barely talked, and yet he somehow had feelings for me. I chalked it up to that he was just playing with me.