ASHLEIGH
MARCH 2023
AGE 18
Ever since the day I became a Richardson, Zayn has been my constant shadow and shield.
He makes the world feel safer just by existing, and I hold onto that feeling, telling myself that what I feel for him is normal. That it is gratitude. Familiarity. Attachment.
I lie to myself and say that's all it is, even when something deeper keeps eating at me, something I know is wrong.
My stomach still bursts with butterflies whenever I see him shirtless. He isn't a boy anymore. Every trace of adolescence is gone.
Now, his body is made up of hard muscles and ridiculously attractive abs. His face is more mature and rugged, but still handsome.
And ever since the day he kissed me in my room, two years ago, nothing has felt the same again.
I get warm between my legs
