She pulled away first.
Very far away.
Like I had leprosy or something.
Her hand clamped over her mouth.
Like she had just committed.
The worst of sins.
I didn't know what to say.
To fix it.
Because maybe I did something wrong.
"Um..."
I began my attempts.
To make amends.
"No."
She snapped back.
Shaking her head sharply.
I felt a pang.
And I could almost see the friendship.
Crumble before my eyes.
"No what?"
I asked.
Fearing the worst.
"Just no.
No no no."
She repeated.
"But..."
I began my arguement.
But I couldn't get a word in.
I took a step forward.
She took a step back.
Shaking her head more.
"No. Ok?
Just. No."
She frowned at the ground.
Never had I ever heard.
The word no so many times.
And never has it ever.
Hurt so much.
She looked scared for once.
Just a hint of fear in her eyes.
And I wondered what exactly she was afraid of.
But I knew I wouldn't get an answer.
Maybe someday.
But not today.
If this went on.
She would ice me out completely.
Terminate the friendship.
With no hesitation.
Eyes downcast.
The back of my throat burning.
I said what she wanted.
Even if it hurt.
"Ok."
