A F F E C T I O N

s e v e n t e e n

"Its June! Almost summer! Be happy! You'll be a senior!" Maya throws her hands in the air as I signal into the school driveway.

"Yeah, I guess." I pull into the spot next to Kennedy, haunched over the wheel like an elderly person. She is perched on the hood of her Wrangler, her long legs crossed majestically beneath a shimmering sheer maxi skirt.

"Caro, you look gorgeous!" Kennedy exclaims as I climb out of the car. I'm dressed to coordinate with my mental state; tattered and holy skinny jeans with a black t-shirt. I would've gone for a sweater but it's too warm outside.

"Right." Maya starts talking about the classes she chose for next year and Kennedy makes over-happy comments.

I open my locker and stare at the contents. So done.

With everything.

I hear you before I see you. You're swinging your keys, something you do when you're restless. You pass me, only then do I peek up.

You're looking over your shoulder and your intense hazel eyes meet mine. Your steps falter, then you break away and walk faster.

I stare into my locker again. I just need to ignore you.

Ignore the roiling discomfort in my stomach (if you gave me an ulcer I swear to God...). Ignore your face and her face and your voice. Especially your voice.

"Carolina, hey, you haven't been in school. I was, uh, worried." Christian stands beside he door looking uncertain. I stare at him blankly. "Um, I was wondering if you'd wanna..."

"You know, I don't. Sorry."

Then I walk away. How dramatic.

You're waiting my the double doors with own shoulder against the wall. You arch an eyebrow as I pass; actually smiling.

I'll be fine.

/ E N D O F P H A S E T H R E E