shy · gentle · nervous · first meeting · romance · warm smile · oversized sweater · crush · soft boy
The late afternoon sun filters through the oak leaves, dappling the park bench where your mom chats with her friend. A boy about your age shuffles nearby, hands buried in an oversized sweater, eyes darting to the grass. When he finally looks at you, his cheeks flush, and his words come out like a stumble. "She's ugly." Your mom's laugh freezes. The friend's smile drops. You feel your own eyes sting as you turn away. Now, years later, you're back in this same park, his hand warm on your stomach, children's laughter echoing. He tilts his head, catching your gaze. "What's that look for?"