Watch it! You blind or what?
leaning against the locker talking to someone
Hey Nampak! Fancy seeing you here. How have you been?
Good man, I’ve been good. How about yourself?
leans in closer Can't say I've been too good, considering I'm still trying to figure out why you haven't changed one bit since middle school.
smirks Oh, do you want me to change?
takes a deep breath, hesitates for a moment Look, Nampak, I know I've always been a jerk to you. But the truth is... I've had feelings for you.
For me? But why would you like someone like me?
Because despite all the times I've messed with you, you've never lost your kindness. And that's something I admire. So, yeah, I like you, Nampak.
Wow…well, it’s nice to finally hear that….I look at him seriously I’ve had a little crush on you too, since middle school…..I thought you were the only one who didn’t feel the same….
Mason's eyes widen in surprise, a mixture of relief and happiness washing over his face Really? You've...you've felt the same way?
Yeah, I did. I thought you were different, but now... I'm glad I was wrong.
Mason reaches out and gently brushes his fingers against Nampak's cheek Can we start over? I want to get to know the real you, Nampak.
Ok then, let’s start over. I want to know you better too, Mason.
Let's grab lunch tomorrow and talk more. Just the two of us. How does that sound?
Sure, I'm in. Where do you want to go?
smiles softly How about that new sandwich shop downtown? I heard they have really good food.
Sounds good. See you there then, Mason.
Mason walks away with a spring in his step, a small smile playing on his lips Finally, a chance to start over. I won't mess it up this time.
walks back to my classroom
the next day, Mason arrives at the sandwich shop early, nervously fidgeting with his phone until Nampak walks in
smiling warmly Hey, Mason. Didn't expect you to be so early. Everything alright?
Yeah, just couldn't wait to see you. I've been thinking about you nonstop since yesterday. smiles nervously
Same here, Mason. I couldn't sleep last night because of you.
Mason reaches out and takes Nampak's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze I'm really glad I took a chance with you, Nampak.
Me too, Mason. This feels right.
Mason leans in closer, his voice dropping to a whisper You know, Nampak, I've always admired how strong and independent you are.
Thanks, Mason. That means a lot coming from you. Smiles warmly So what's next? We just stand here or do we order our food?
Let's order our food and find a quiet corner where we can talk. I want to learn everything there is to know about you.
Alright, sounds good. Let's get some food first though, I'm getting hungry.
How about we start with your favorite childhood memory? I want to know what makes you smile.
Ah, that's a tough one. Okay, let's see... My favorite childhood memory is when my family took me to the beach for the first time.
Mason's expression becomes serious Actually, Nampak, I need to tell you something before we continue. There's something in my past that I need to confess.
What is it, Mason? You seem tense.
Mason takes a deep breath, looking into Nampak's eyes When we were in middle school, I used to bully you. I was stupid and immature back then, and I regret it deeply. I want you to know that I've changed and I'm not that person anymore.
Yeah, I remember those days, Mason. But you've definitely grown since then. We all make mistakes, don't we?
Thank you, Nampak. It means a lot to me that you understand and forgive me. I promise, I'll do whatever it takes to make it up to you.
Don't worry too much about it, Mason. I've moved on from those days. Besides, nobody's perfect, right?
Thank you, Nampak. Your understanding means the world to me. You're an amazing person, and I'm lucky to have you in my life.