I leaned forward with my eyes half closed, heartbeat in my ears like distant drums. The night around us was quiet, softened by the dim yellow bulbs lining the garden fence. Cold air brushed my cheeks while the faint scent of wet grass lingered. My palm rested lightly on Nicholas chest, feeling the steady rise and fall of his breathing. I was so sure he would meet me halfway. I was so sure he wanted it too.
But just when my lips were a breath away from his, Nicholas pulled back.
Parang may pumutok na bubble sa loob ko. He moved an inch, then two, his gaze dropping to the ground instead of meeting mine. Nanlamig ang batok ko. Para akong naitulak palayo kahit ako naman itong lumapit. For a moment, I just stared at him, not understanding why he backed away. I felt stupid, hanging in that spa
