It’s just us.
But Jesse’s staring into the crowd, scanning the bleachers. His jaw’s tight, and I already know what he’s looking for. Or whom.
“They didn’t come,” I say softly.
“Nope.” He pulls his lips to one side and shrugs.
I never expected Jesse’s parents to show up today. They haven’t said a word to him in two years, and I don’t thinkheexpected it either.
But he still looks, and I understand it more than anyone.
The year after my parents left, I’d find myself looking out the window for them without even realizing I was doing it. I know what it’s like to be forgotten.
My heart aches for him right now, and I wish I could fix this. I can’t, though.
All I can do is love him.
And I do. So damn much.
“Hey, have you heard from any places yet?” I ask, bringing him back to me.
Jesse didn’t apply to any schools. His grades weren’t good enough for scholarships, but he’s been saving and applying to jobs in Chapel Hill.
“Not yet, but I will,” he replies, his hand brushing mine as we stand awkwardly. Always with enough space between us, always wanting no space.
We already agreed that once I get a grip on school fall semester and he gets a few months of work under his belt, we’ll tell my family together.
We’ll say itjusthappened.
Danny will probably flip out because he freaks out over everything, but I pray Nan will be okay with it.
My grades won’t slip, and I have a plan. Everything will be perfect; she won’t even be able to justify being mad.
But I can’t spiral too far ahead. All I want to think about is the first night we are free in a place where no one knows us, where our relationship doesn’t put anyone at risk.
That dream is what keeps me moving forward every single day.
“Hey,” I say softly, getting his attention again. Jesse smiles at me. “We did it. Off to our next adventure.”
His thumb grazes the top of mine.
Jesse studies me, something unspoken glittering in his eyes.
“Penny Hanson, you are my adventure.”
My heart stumbles in my chest.
I bite my lip so hard it stings. I want to kiss him more than I want air.
“Wait—I actually got you something,” he says suddenly, unzipping his gown.
“What?” I blink. “Jesse! You didn’t have to—”
He rummages through his khaki pockets, and my heart races in anticipation. I selfishly wish I could freeze this moment.
Then he pulls out a ring.
No—thering.
