" I did. You always looked so sad and vulnerable. I wanted to reach out to you, but could not bring myself to do it, because I knew I could never just be your friend. When I got back from training camp, I asked Connell about you and he suggested we all go to the beach. I really hoped you would also go. Connell knows how I feel about you and from the beginning he has been trying constantly to convince me to speak to you."
" So, yesterday? Why were you avoiding me then?"
" After the beach I dropped Aaron off first because it was my intention to tell you how I felt, but then you said your parents are upset with you. I could not sit in front of your house, expressing my feelings, knowing your dad might come rushing out at any moment. Then, by the time I got home, I decided there was no way you could actually feel the same way about me as I feel about you. I kept thinking I should walk away before … So, I decided to rather try harder at avoiding you. Obviously, as you can see, without any success." He continues seriously, "I went to school the following day with the firm conviction to keep away from you. I noticed the hurt in your eyes when I was so rude to you after you came into the room, bringing sunshine with you. All I could think of all day was you and decided I do not care what happens. I could not handle the uncertainty any longer and I knew I wanted to be with you. I was on my way to find you and to explain my offensive behaviour, but then I saw you and Aaron hugging. I thought you had something going for Aaron anyway and it was only in my imagination that you liked me because I wanted so much for you to feel the same way as I do."
" So what makes you think you can trust me with your heart now? What makes tonight different?" I ask him and then I hold my breath.
" Because, I have told you at last." He takes a deep breath and looking at me carefully, he continues, "I cannot stand the suspense of not knowing whether you like me or not. I am not one of those people who thrive on the unknown, the little looks, and the secret smiles. I have to know." He stops and looks at me inquiringly, "So?"
" So what?" I ask.
He sighs frustrated. "Do you like me or not?"
I smile widely. "Honestly, Jared. The moment I saw you, I liked you. I cannot really explain it, but it was brutally painful actually." I lean into him and kiss him softly on his lips.