“That was less than two hours ago,” I said.
Maya followed my gaze. “Juniper—”
“He was right there.”
“I know.”
“I watched him for three periods and kept thinking about how I was going to tell him. I worried I’d ruin his night. I actually felt guilty for the timing.”
“You didn’t ruin anything.”
“I didn’t get the chance.”
The highlight ended. A commercial began playing.
My hand settled over my stomach. The gesture happened so often now that I usually didn’t notice it, but this time I did. My palm seemed too small to protect what was beneath it.
I imagined going back to Maya’s apartment with the box unopened. Taking off the cream sweater we had chosen together. Washing off my makeup. Sliding into bed while the truth remained trapped inside me for another night.
“No,” I said.
Maya fr
