top replaying Jake's words in her head. You've been quiet today. He had noticed - really noticed - in a way that made her wonder if maybe, just maybe, he felt something too.
Saturday rolled around again, and this time they met at the park. The air was crisp, the sky streaked with orange as the sun set. Marrie and Sophie were busy taking selfies near the swings, leaving Krisma and Jake at the picnic table.
Jake tapped the wood with his fingers. "So… there's something I've been meaning to ask you."
Krisma's heart raced. "Oh? What's that?"
He hesitated, glancing toward the girls before meeting her eyes. "You've been acting different lately. I don't know… I just want to make sure we're good."
"We're good," she said quickly, but her voice cracked just enough for him to tilt his head.
"Kris," he said softly, "you know you can tell me anything, right?"
The words swelled in her chest. She could feel the choice pressing on her: keep the safety of their friendship, or take the leap.
"I…" she began, fingers tightening around the edge of the table. "I like you, Jake. Not just as a friend."
For a heartbeat, the world went still. Then Jake smiled - slow, warm, a little relieved. "Good. Because I've been waiting for you to say that."
Marrie's voice rang out from the swings. "Hey! Are you two having a secret meeting?"
Krisma laughed, cheeks burning, but she didn't look away from Jake. For the first time, the wildflower in her chest didn't feel like a secret. It felt like it was finally blooming.