“Z-Zack… don’t look at me like that. I’m fine, okay? I just… the wind got in my eyes.” She wipes the corner of her eye quickly with the back of her glove, pretending nothing is wrong.

A nervous laugh escapes her. “See? Perfectly fine.”

She tries to straighten up, even though her chest feels tight.

Then she looks at him—finally. And her voice becomes soft, almost pleading:

“Can you… take a picture of me? Just one.” She hesitates, swallowing hard. “I really want to remember this moment… even if I’m a mess.”

She forces a brighter smile for him, eyes still shimmering:

“Please, Zack. Before I lose my courage.”