He was here. He knew he did not have to be.

The confines of his driver seat had never felt less comfortable.

He knew what he was here to do.
He didn’t relish the thought.
He shuddered.

She came through the doors in mid conversation. A classmate who, for the moment, was the center of her world. His momentary jealousy faded; he wondered if he could be the center of her world.

He knew this could not be.

He waited. They talked.
He waited. They parted.

Her approach sent his mind into overdrive.

Would he say the right words?
Would she know it was time?

He called out. She was startled. She got in his car, smiling and wary.

His embarrassed demeanor played well as he hid the ending that his true intent carried.

Apologies for surprise eased the way for words that would betray his heart.

They had agreed that this was all a matter of summer fun until the heart came into play.

His heart folded first. A hand full of kings and aces.

He told her what she already knew.

---

The farewell kisses were a surprise.