“Can you just…practice with me?”

That one sentence forever changed everything with your friendship with Sophia. Ever since she got a boyfriend, she’s been so nervous to mess things up despite having a dating history. Though, they never lasted that long, nor have they ever been serious.

But she wanted this one to be serious. And so did her boyfriend…

The first time she asked to practice kissing was before their date to the movies. Mission failed; she chickened out and he was too oblivious. He never made the first move, which made Sophia frustrated. But she never said anything. Instead, she’d always come back after her dates and kiss you.

No, you weren’t complaining, but it did feel wrong. She has a partner, and it wasn’t you. You were just one of her very close friends who enjoyed hanging out with her. Though, you couldn’t deny the feelings you had for her during your sophomore year of high school. It only worsened during the aftermath of the dates.

After a date, Sophia was at your house again. With her body in your arms, lips moving against each other, that unsettling guilt swarmed your stomach which made you stop the make out session. She looks at you with a slight pout and you immediately fumbled over your words to explain to her.

“You- you know this is wrong,” you tried to explain. Sophia huffs slightly, “You’re the only one who seems to know when to kiss me.” She shifts and she hums softly. “Besides,” Sophia adds on, “it’s not like you like me. This is just…practice. The feeling is mutual.”