"You're still mad at me for kissing Asher?" said Maddie, who approached Wes from behind. Wes paused in his task of cleaning his dish in the kitchen sink.

"Naw," said Wes, resuming his washing. "I couldn't be mad at you Maddie. I was just surprised is all."

"Then why don't you look at me?" said Maddie. 

"I.. shoot," said Wes, turning to peek at her in a tentative way. "I didn't think you'd notice."

"Not notice?! You've been avoiding me like the black plague for a week and a half."

"Black plague is a bit rough," said Wes.

"So is being ignored entirely by the guy you like," said Maddie.

Wes stopped his washing then. He turned around to look at her, not daring to believe her words. Perhaps this was some weird prank or something.

"You mean that?" He said.

"You know it," said Maddie.

"I like you too Maddie."

"When are you going to ask me out then?" said Maddie.

"I..," Wes faltered. "It's complicated."

"There's another girl then?" said Maddie. "You can tell me. I'd rather know."

"Another girl?" said Wes, perplexed. "No! No no, of course not! No girl could ever come close to you Maddie."

Maddie looked down, but she couldn't help but smile. She felt pleased and elated. But then paused. "Well, why then? Why won't you go out with me?"

"I... I can't tell you," said Wes.

Maddie stood opposite the kitchen for a moment. She wasn't sure what to do. "Alright Wes," she turned to leave. "Play your games all you want. But I deserve to know."

"No wait Maddie! I want to tell you. Honest. It's just complicated." Wes fiddled with his fingers uncomfortably. The moment seemed to stand still while they looked at each other. Almost as if each was waiting for the other to say something.

"I can't tell you," said Wes. "But ... maybe I can show you. Meet me in the backyard in a couple of days. After dinner when evening has settled."

"See you then Wes," said Maddie, feeling hopeful.

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