Chasing Clouds

by Kathryn Andrews

that. It’s

he says calmly. “Well, we kind of did make a huge decision today.” He chuckles, and the feel of it vibrates through him and into me. Leaning back, I look up to see

more humiliation for my family. That’s why I don’t know what to do.” “So let’s make it real,” he says, his tone so casual. “How do we do that?” My stare bounces back and forth between his eyes. “Go on a date with me.” He grins. “A date? What?” “Be with me tonight. We’re already in this together, so why not? For tonight, be mine.” He shrugs one shoulder. Be his. Could I be his for one night? I haven’t been on a date in so long, or out with another guy in over five years. I don’t even know if I know how to act. “What do we tell people?” I ask him. “Nothing really. I think less is more. It’s not anyone’s business, and the more details we give, the harder it will be to remember them all.” “Yeah, I think you’re right, but we will get asked.” “Okay, we met late last summer after your semester started. I was visiting my family and went out with Nate and his friends. You and I instantly hit it off and secretly kept in touch.” Three sentences . . . three sentences of a lie that now has to give proof for my erratic behavior . . . three sentences that do sound believable. “Okay, simple enough. I like that.” “It’s going to be fine.” He gives me a smile and my gaze lowers to his mouth. There’s a small scar on the top left side of his upper lip, and I decide I like it. “They’re going to clink the glasses and expect us to kiss.” “So I’ll let you kiss me.” He laughs. My eyes dart back to

I’m just making sure.” He bends down and lightly kisses me

of the covers, on his side, facing me. No shirt, no shoes or socks, just his pants and layers of muscles

She’s wearing a denim