Spending time with Nate, our hands intertwined, laughing and talking, has been the highlight of camp, and it’s only dayone. I can’t wait to learn more about him…everything there is to know.
We’re nearly to my cabin when Nate surprises me by pulling me off the path and pushes me up against a tree.
The dark woods surrounding us are hushed except for our labored breaths and the distant sound of tree frogs and cicadas.
He’s close enough that I can smell the last lingering traces of his cologne. It reminds me of a cool ocean breeze. A crisp, airy scent perfect for summer.
But there is something else that is just sohim.
“Mason is standing at your cabin door, so I want to say good night now before he pummels my face in.”
I smirk. “So dramatic.”
“I love these.” He ignores me and traces my dimples. “Can I kiss one good night?”
“You want to kiss my dimple good night?” I giggle.
He nods. “I really do.”
Turning my head, I lift my chin for better access. I am well aware this is all so new to me, but I like this side of me. The one Nate is quickly helping me discover.
He cups my cheek, leans in to softly press his lips against my dimple. All I can think about is how close he is to my lips.
He switches hands to cup the cheek he was kissing, then presses his lips to my other dimple. “This one felt neglected.” He smiles against my skin, matching my wide grin.
I’ve never been kissed…not truly. A peck on the lips as a dare once, but now standing here under the night sky, all I want is for Nate to own that privilege.
“Nate?” I whisper.
He leans back, slightly panting. “Don’t look at me like that, Mads.”
I stand on my tippy-toes. “Like what?” My voice sounds different; it’s raspy and full of excitement.
“I’m not going to kiss you tonight. Your dimples are the only ones gettin’ the love.”
I’m well aware that I’m pouting, and I’m hoping it gets me what I want.
“Don’t you dare.” He steps closer. “I can’t.”
“I’ve never…”
“Mads.” He throws his head back. “You’ve never what? Kissed someone? You want me to be your first kiss?”
I roll my lips together, nodding. “Please.”
4
Maddie Grace
The lightsfrom the nearby path cast a warm glow over him as he runs a manic hand through his thick, waved hair. His eyes are wild as he begins to pace back and forth.
“Nate—”
He pauses. “Yeah?”
“Please.”
When he doesn’t move, I whisper, “Please,” once more, pleading with my eyes.
