- May I offer you this dance?

She looks so gracious, standing there in a velvety red dress that magnifies her body perfectly, smiling gently and holding out her hand. I look around for a little while and end up deciding we can absolutely dance together. As friends, of course. Always as friends. I look up to her and our gazes meet. Hers was intense, mine was probably rather shy. She carefully places her small hands on my hips and I take the lead of the dance. I'm not used to it, as women aren't taught how to lead, but it turns out fine.

More than just fine, actually. The butterflies flicker through my body as we dance our way through the library. The aroma of old books and melted candles intertwines with her delicate perfume in an almost magical combination.

Without any logical explanation, classical music starts playing. I never thought rain could make the atmosphere even more on point, yet here we are. My feet move by themselves, trying clumsily to follow the tune that's playing. Happily, she doesn't seem to mind the missteps I make.

Our Physics assignment lays forgotten on the old wooden table we were sitting at previously, we probably will procrastinate making it until the very last moment, like we always do. I notice the strand of hair gliding in front of my friend's hair and I replace it softly. After what feels like the most happy ten minutes of my life, the piano abruptly stops playing its melody. I close my eyes for a moment, not wanting the dance to end.

I still need her touch and the smell of her hair and her presence by my side. I can't do homework without this girl, let alone living without her. My mouth lets a quiet murmur slip out of my mouth without my permission:

- I- I don't think I will ever be able to see you as a friend.

She looks up in confusion, her face still relaxed and happy:

- What do you mean, aren't we friends?

I'm scared of giving in to this intense feeling that everyone describes as... Love? What if she doesn't feel all of these magical, tingling feelings? What if I get punished for longing for a girl? I ramble on nervously:

- These butterflies I feel... I don't get those with my friends.

My breathing is shaky, but she doesn't push me away, she doesn't look at me in disgust. In fact, she replies tenderly:

- I haven't felt my own butterflies with my other friends either.

She leans in, and I can guess she wants to kiss me. Instinctively, I search her mouth with mine until I can feel her lips kissing mine in the most beautiful way possible.

I remember my pastor, and all of his ugly talks about how two girls must never kiss, but instead of obeying to his talks and pulling back, I bring a hand back up to her hair and caress it while making out with her, pouring out all the things I love about her in this kiss.

Half an hour later I get back to the library, after having walked her to her rooms, and let myself slide on my favorite couch. An impish voice resonates next to me.

- You guys really are a mealy couple. Your dancing improved though, but it's still not as good as mine.

Unimpressed, I take a look at Benjamin. He's floating two meters above me nonchalantly, checking out his nails.

- You're a creepy stalker. Besides, you have been practicing every single day since you're dead. You being better than me is absolutely not impressive!

His vicious smile disappears immediately at the sight of William. The deep voice of the older ghost makes me shiver, even if his tone is set on gentle kindness.

- Let the girl alone you horrendous friend!

He then turns to me and smiles.

- Did you like the music I played?

He looks shy, despite his talent, and I nearly hug him before remembering it would offend him. I choose for a simple, honest answer:

- It was perfect Will, thanks a lot. Why did you stop so suddenly?

- She nearly saw me, he grumbles.

I nod along with his words, a bit sad because she'll never get to see my dearest friends. I notice Catherine, Will's sister, isn't there and tilt up my head, searching for her in her favorite corners. After what feels like hours of searching, Ben comes up to me, now fully serious. The exhausted look on his face is alarming.

- Catherine won't come back.

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I did a short role-play with one of my friends while listening to one of Olivialeee's playlists and this is the result, thought I'd share it!

I love you, take care and take a break from looking at your screen!

Noa <3