Hey, Thelma. Would you like to go on a date with me? My heart skipped a beat, and I feel my friends’ eyes on me as I read the message. Meghan leans over my shoulder, peering at my phone. “Ohhh, someone’s got a date,” she teases, her voice playful. I can’t help but smile, feeling both excited and nervous. “I don’t know…” I begin, but Emily jumps in. “Don’t overthink it, Thelma. Go have fun! You deserve it girl.” Sophie nods in agreement. “Yeah, go out and enjoy yourself. You’ve earned a little distraction.” I look at my friends, their supportive smiles encouraging me, and finally, I type back a response to Daniel. Sure, I’d like that. As I hit send, a mix of excitement and anxiety rushed through me. It’s been so long since I’ve thought about anything other than school, family, and respo

