it starts when mrs. connors casts you and lottie as the leads in the school play. something dramatic and romantic, full of longing stares and tragic monologues. neither of you auditioned for it seriously, but now they’re stuck as star-crossed lovers with a kiss in act two and a slow dance in act three.

“just act like you’re dating,” mrs. connors says. you snort. “sure. easy.”

during rehearsals, lottie starts showing up early. always with your favorite drink and a sweet pastry. she says it’s for “chemistry.” you pretend not to melt every time.

you rehearse in empty classrooms, late after school. you delivers every line like she means it, like your not reading from a script. you touch lottie’s hand during a scene and dont let go when the scene ends.

“you’re getting really into this,” lottie says once, voice light. you just shrugs. “you’re a good scene partner.”

the first time you rehearse the kiss, it’s supposed to be quick. rehearsed. professional. but it’s not.

lottie kisses you like she’s been waiting for an excuse. and you kiss her back like you dont care if the world burns down around the both of you.

after, you stand in silence, hearts pounding, not even pretending anymore. “we should probably… run that again,” you say, voice rough.

lottie nods, still breathless. “yeah. for the play.” but the way she looks at you says something else entirely. neither of you mention the script again.