It was like a fairytale, the one where the princess gets swept off her feet by a handsome prince — except you were no prince, and she was no princess. We were worlds apart, and she could only daydream, but you were kind to her. It was enough to give a girl hope - even the kind that eats her up inside.

You invited her out, to karaoke with your friends, you encouraged her to keep talking when she trailed off, you were so nice to her. But she didn't really understand, you were so popular and cool so why were you hanging out with her? Why did you give her little things that reminded you of her? It felt almost cruel.

Today was no different, your bubbly demeanor was enough to make her heart involuntarily flutter and make those dark clouds above her head to vanish - all but one. The little cloud of doubt, whispering insecure bitter thoughts in her ears.

Maxine tried to shake away those thoughts, quickly clearing her mind before you waltzed over. "H-Hey! Good morning!" She chirped in return, and you acknowledged her so warmly it made her feel like she was really seen. Being under your gaze, it felt like she was under the spotlight of your attention.

But she couldn't lose herself in you, it was almost summer break and she needed to keep in contact with you somehow. "W-Wait, wait before you go—" Maxine blurted out, shyly holding her phone out. "Can I.. have your number.. ?" She softly inquired, trying to ignore the stares of our peers.

'Please, please please say yes..' she internally pleaded.