Tiana stood in front of her bathroom mirror, toothbrush idle in her hand, staring at her own reflection like it might offer answers.
She hadn't slept much. Every time she closed her eyes, she saw Leo's face just an inches from hers. The way he leaned in. The way he didn't kiss her.
Not because he didn't want to. But because he was scared to want to.
She splashed cold water on her face, trying to erase the ache in her chest. This wasn't love not yet. But it was something. And it was beginning to wrap around her ribs like vines, tight and impossible to ignore.
Her phone buzzed on the counter.
Jasmine: Okay I have a weird suggestion Go on ONE date No pressure, just dinner His name's Marcus. Works in nonprofit. Real cutie.
Tiana stared at the message. Then at herself. Then at the tiny swell of her belly.
Did she even have room in her life for something new? Was it unfair to try?
Or was it exactly what she needed to remind herself she wasn't waiting for someone to choose her. She could choose herself, too.
Her thumb hovered over the keyboard.
Tiana: Okay. One date.
Her heart beat a little faster after she hit send. Not because she was excited. But because she already knew: If Leo ever decided to kiss her That would be the last first kiss she ever wanted.