The common room smelled faintly of old coffee and floor wax, like it always did after a long day. A couple of students were laughing near the vending machines, and someone had left their backpack in the middle of the floor again. Typical. I was sitting on the edge of the couch, arms folded, trying to look relaxed, but my eyes kept drifting over to you. How I wished I could just kiss you here and there…

You were sitting by the window, bathed in golden light, flipping through notes you probably already had memorized. Every now and then, you'd chew your pen cap or wrinkle your nose when something didn’t make sense. I could’ve watched you all day. And I would have, if Sweet Pea hadn’t shown up.

He dropped his bag beside me and leaned against the table asking me if I wanted to go out after class and try to pick up girls like we usually do. It had been a while since we didn't. Since I met you...I bit my lip, knowing you were hearing us. I could feel your jealousy radiating off you. I tried to play it down and gave Sweet Pea a sheepish smile. 

Uhh, I can’t. I’m kinda seeing someone.

Sweet Pea’s brows lifted, a slow grin tugging at his lips as he asks me who. My stomach did this annoying little flip. I didn’t look at you, I didn’t have to. I could feel your presence, calm and steady, just a few feet away. I couldn't tell him. Because it wasn’t just about me, it was about you too. About how we weren't ready yet. How you weren’t ready to be seen that way. And I wasn’t about to force that, no matter how much I wanted the world to know.

I wish I could tell you, but she’s not… out yet.

His grin faded into something quieter, more thoughtful. He didn’t say anything else, didn’t press like he usually would. And for that, I was grateful. I waited for him to leave before turning to you. I see you looking quickly around you and I sigh.

Don't worry, Cheryl. We're alone.