Never Been Kissed by Daisie Sam

Chapter 5

The crisp autumn air bit at Amelia’s cheeks as she clung onto Ethan’s back, his motorcycle roaring to life. Her initial nervousness melted away with the rush of wind, replaced by a thrilling sense of adventure. Ethan expertly navigated the streets, leading them to a small, cozy pizzeria tucked away on a side street.

Inside, the aroma of melted cheese and oregano hung heavy in the air. They settled into a corner booth, the flickering candlelight casting a warm glow on their faces. As they browsed the menu, a comfortable silence settled between them, a stark contrast to the awkward tension of Monday.

“So,” Ethan began, breaking the silence, “anything exciting happening in the world of Amelia Bennet this week?”

Amelia chuckled, a light, airy sound. “Not much. The usual routine � books, classes, daydreaming about becoming a famous author.”

Ethan raised an eyebrow playfully. “Daydreaming, huh? About what exactly?”

A blush crept up Amelia’s neck. “Just…stories,” she mumbled, avoiding his gaze. “Grand adventures, fantastical creatures, the usual writer stuff.”

“Intriguing,” Ethan said, leaning closer. “Maybe you can tell me one sometime. Maybe over another pizza, of course.”

Amelia felt a flutter in her chest. Was he asking her out again? A shy smile flitted across her lips. “Maybe,” she replied, the word barely a whisper.

Their pizzas arrived, a steaming hot concoction of pepperoni and extra cheese. As they devoured their slices, the conversation flowed easily. They talked about their favorite books, their dreams for the future, and their shared passion for classic rock music. Amelia discovered a depth to Ethan she never expected. Behind the confident facade of the star athlete lay a thoughtful young man with a surprising love for sci-fi novels and a secret desire to travel the world.

As the night wore on, the pizzeria began to empty, leaving them alone in the warm, candlelit haven. Ethan leaned back in his chair, studying her with an intensity that made her heart skip a beat.

“You know,” he said, his voice a husky whisper, “you’re even more interesting than your poems let on.”

Amelia’s breath hitched. “In a good way, I hope,” she managed, a playful smile dancing on her lips.

Ethan’s smile deepened. “The best way,” he replied, his gaze flickering to her lips for a fleeting moment.

The air crackled with unspoken tension. Amelia felt a sudden urge to bridge the gap between them, to finally experience the kiss she’d dreamt about for so long. But fear, the constant companion of her “Never Been Kissed” title, held her back.

Just then, a slow song from the jukebox filled the silence, its melody thick with romantic undertones. Ethan seemed to come to a decision. He stood up, extending his hand towards Amelia.

“Care to dance?” he asked, his voice laced with a hint of nervousness that mirrored her own.

Amelia hesitated for a moment, then a surge of determination overcame her fear. Taking his hand, she stood up, a nervous excitement bubbling in her stomach.

As they swayed to the music, Ethan holding her close, a comfortable warmth spread through Amelia. For the first time, the label “Never Been Kissed” felt insignificant. In this moment, surrounded by the soft glow of candlelight and the gentle rhythm of the music, she simply felt like Amelia � a girl finally experiencing the joy of connection, the thrill of possibility.

The song ended, and Ethan held her gaze for a beat too long. Amelia’s breath caught in her throat. Could this be it? Was this finally her moment?

Before she could even think about the answer, Ethan leaned in closer, his blue eyes sparkling with a mix of curiosity and desire.