I smiled, but inside I was kind of freaking out. Was he going to kiss me? It felt like it. But I’ve only known him a couple days. What do I actually know about him?

But, I want him to. It’s just a kiss. And I do like him. Sitting with him, it just feels right.

He leaned in and kissed me before I could say anything. I kind of jumped, but then closed my eyes and leaned into him, kissing him back. My brain stopped thinking. Bliss.

Suddenly Mary Cole’s face popped into my head. I imagined her kissing him in this spot. I pictured her looking up and smirking at me. I pulled away.

“wha-” He started to say, confused.

“Sorry, I’m sorry.” I looked down.

“No, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have… I should have taken things slower.”

“No, that’s okay. I’m just an idiot. It’s not your fault. Can we just, talk for a while? Here, walk with me.”

So we did, we walked around the beach, talking and getting to know each other. An hour later the awkwardness had gone away and we decided to eat the food he brought.