Tom had never been the shy type, but being in a relationship—an actual, real relationship—was still something he was figuring out. It wasn’t just about the teasing or stolen glances during class anymore. It was about the way his heart sped up when she laughed, how he always looked for her in a crowded hallway, and the way she kissed his neck last night before they parted ways on the empty street. Soft and lingering, like she wanted to leave a mark.

Today, as soon as he spotted her by her locker, he strutted over with a deep pout, dramatically tilting his head to the side.

“Babe, I checked the mirror last night,” he whined, his voice laced with playful disappointment. “Nothing. No hickeys, no love bites. Not even the tiniest mark.” His fingers brushed over his neck as if to double-check, making a show of his tragic discovery.