Holding Autumn's hand shouldn't feel like a big deal.
But it does.
Her fingers fit into mine easily, warm despite the cool ocean air.
She doesn't pull away.
That alone makes my chest feel tighter than it should. Almost taking my breath awat in the moment.
We sit quietly watching the waves below.
Eventually she says,
"You're thinking again."
I smile as she uses my line on me.
"So are you."
"I asked first."
I sigh slightly.
"I was thinking that you deserve better than this. Better than me."
She groans dramatically. I chuckle internally, even frustrated she was magnetic.
"You keep saying that."
"Because it's true."
"And I keep telling you I'll decide that for myself."
Her stubbornness makes me smile.
"You're impossible."
"So I've been told."
She shifts slightly in her seat, turning toward me.
"Can I ask you something?"
"That depends."
"Have you ever actually liked someone? Beyond the physical?"
The question catches me off guard.
"Define liked."
She rolls her eyes.
"You know what I mean."
I stare out at the dark water for a moment before answering.
"Not like this."
Her expression softens.
"Like what?"
I meet her gaze.
"Like I'm constantly trying not to screw it up."
The honesty in that statement surprises both of us.