The Beard

Addressing the face of ignorance? Check. Suddenly getting hit with reality? Check. Wondering how things can change so abruptly? Check.

Who knew coming back from summer vacation could lead to so much heartbreak? Emerson "Emie" Badgley sure didn't. She expects to come back to a basic senior year startup with her best friends flanking her side and her boyfriend clutched close. After all, Emie is a nice girl, and she's in a darling relationship with local dream guy Sebastian Caldwell.

Sebastian is the perfect gentleman and boyfriend. Well, for Emie anyway. Living in a small town, they've known each other since childhood. As far as any school sweetheart goes, Sebastian and Emie are it. But when Sebastian returns from vacation with his family, there's a noticeable change in him and Emie can't place what.

As she tries to take their platonic, conservative relationship to the next level, Sebastian withdraws-avoidance and arguing are what they resort to. With such an abrupt reaction from him, it leaves Emie to ponder just what the issue is. Why is Emie's wish to take their relationship to the next level such a huge problem?