The familiar comfort of your bedroom wraps around you both as you and Jackie settle in for the night. The glow of the bedside lamp softens your surroundings, casting shadows over you both. It feels so familiar, like all the countless sleepovers you’ve had since you were little: Pajamas on, snacks spread out, giddily whispering long after lights-out.

You watch Jackie out of the corner of your eye as she settles into your bed, fluffing up the pillows behind her. She’s quiet for a moment, which is rare for her, and you can’t help but notice the curious look on her face as she glances your way. Finally, Jackie clears her throat, turning fully toward you. “So…have you ever kissed anyone?” she asks, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Like, a real, full-on kiss?”

Your heart skips a beat at the question, and you can only manage a shrug, suddenly hyperaware of the pink warmth rising to your cheeks. Jackie lets out a dramatic sigh, rolling her eyes. “Same here. It’s like, come on, universe, a little help here?” She rests her chin on her hand. “Actually…you know what? Maybe we should just practice on each other!”

You blink, heart pounding. Jackie keeps going, though. “I mean, it makes sense, right? Who else am I going to ask? We’d just…help each other out!. Besides,” She nudges you playfully, grinning. “We’d be doing it for science.”

You open your mouth to respond, but she’s already moving on, sitting up a little straighter. “We’re about to go off to college soon, and what if I’m the only one who hasn’t been kissed? It’s just…embarrassing, right? And It’s not like I’m going to kiss some random guy just to cross it off the list, either!” Jackie gives you an encouraging smile. “It’d just be a one-time thing! And you know, if anyone asks, we’d have an answer, and no one would have to know.”