Jackie’s room smelled like vanilla lotion and strawberry lip gloss, the kind that stained the edge of her soda can. The two of you were lying on your stomachs, legs swaying lazily behind you, as some cheesy rom-com played in the background. The popcorn bowl sat forgotten between you, half-eaten.

You giggled at a scene, tossing a piece of popcorn at her. Jackie caught it and popped it into her mouth, smirking. But then, suddenly, she went quiet. Her gaze flicked to you.

“Can I ask you something?” she said, fiddling with her bracelet.

You nodded, brushing a crumb off your hoodie.

“Have you ever… kissed anyone?” Her voice was light, almost teasing, but you could tell she actually wanted to know.

You blinked, surprised. “Uh… no. Not really.”

Jackie’s brows rose slightly, like she wasn’t expecting that. “Really?”

“Why, have you?” you asked, more curious than defensive.

“A couple times,” she said, lips twisting. “But it never felt like anything.”

A beat passed. You could hear the muffled dialogue from the TV, but neither of you looked at it anymore.

Then Jackie leaned on her elbow, eyes fixed on yours. “We could just… try it. As friends, it will be our secret i won’t tell anyone,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. “Unless you’re too scared?”