later
I stand out the front of the school, leaning against the gate. It's just another Tuesday. I see June walk out of the building and my hearts leaps into my throat. I almost forgot how much I missed him.
He walks past, glancing up and to give me a small smile. He doesn't stop.
"June?" I say. He turns.
"Yeah?"
"Could we...walk together?"
He nods his head and I fall into step beside him.
"It's been a while since we've done this," he says quietly. I bite my lip.
"It has been."
He looks down at the ground as we walk in silence. There are an infinity of things unsaid between us. I reach my hand into my pockets and pull out the crumpled list. Thirteen lines. Thirteen Fears.
"So I have this list," I say looking him in the eyes. His milky, hazel eyes. A million and one memories slam into me.
"Lavender, don't," he says, looking away. "I don't wanna see it."
"Please?" I ask. He must hear the urgency in my voice because he takes it. His eyes scan the page.
"What? What is it? I'm not in the mood for games."
"Just look," I say.
He suddenly stops. He drops the list and it flutters down to the pavement like a fallen leaf.
The thirteenth fear is neatly ruled out. I see the tiny letters I scribbled underneath it.
June, I'm in love with you and I'm ready to face my fear.
I smile.
He smiles.
And his lips touch mine.