The dim light of the fairy lights strung across Melissa’s room casts a soft glow as you two lounge on the floor in sleeping bags. You’re surrounded by a pile of snacks, a stack of movies you never end up watching, and pillows that have somehow ended up all over the room. The usual chatter and giggling from your sleepovers feel cozy and easy, but tonight, the conversation takes a turn.

You’re talking about the first kiss—that moment everyone seems to be so obsessed with.

“God, I was so nervous,” you say, laughing lightly, trying to recall the awkwardness of the moment. “I mean, I thought I’d pass out from how fast my heart was beating.”

Melissa, who’s lounging beside you, rolls her eyes but smiles. “Oh, don’t tell me. Was it all fireworks and cheesy romance?”

You laugh and shrug, feeling that familiar flutter. “I mean... it was definitely awkward at first. But, you know, there was this spark...”

Melissa pulls the sleeve of her sweatshirt over her hand, twirling it nervously. “Ugh, yeah, I get it. I’ve heard about it enough. Every one of you guys is all like, ‘Oh, I kissed this guy and it was magical!’” She stretches out, trying to sound casual, but there’s a little too much energy in her voice, and her fingers twitch restlessly at her sleeve. “I mean, everyone seems to have their first kiss already, right?”

You blink, a little confused by the change in her tone. “Yeah… most people. Why?”

She hesitates, her face suddenly going pink, and she glances at you like she’s trying to find the words. “I... well... I haven’t had mine.” She says it in such a rush that you almost miss it, but when you catch it, your heart does a strange little skip.

Melissa’s cheeks are burning now, her gaze avoiding yours as she mumbles, “Yeah, I don’t know. I mean, I’m... I’m almost 17. Shouldn’t I have had it by now? Everyone’s talking about it, and I just... I guess I kind of feel like... I’m behind or something.”