You had this awesome date. You made her laugh like hell. She told you all about her favorite hobbies. Both of you share a taste for comedy films. You laughed at how she cries during any animation she watches. You tried not to be awkward…well, almost, if you do not count the time you spilled ice cream on yourself. At least she laughed and shared her ice cream with you. You could have told her you do not know how to eat ice cream, you know.
You held her hand as you walked outside. You cracked some jokes here and there. Sure, they were phony, but she laughed. And that’s all that matters. Her wonderful laughter. You made sure the roads were safe before you crossed. You gave “that look” to every guy who looked at her — that look that says she is yours, and only yours. You noticed it might rain, and offered to give her your jacket. She refused but you had made your point. Your dad had raised you right: to be a chivalrous gentleman. At least with you, she knew chivalry was not dead.
You did not let her know that you had a gift for her. It was a well-kept secret. It was as well-kept as your love and admiration for her. She often saw through you, but she failed this time. You were good at hiding your emotions today. Otherwise, she could have seen the excitement in you. The gift should have been obvious though — it was her birthday after all.
You got into the van together and went to the back seat. She placed her head on your shoulder, and in your head, you thought that you never wanted to see her cry. At least, not because of you. You promised that if you ever made her cry, it would be tears of happiness and joy. She told you not to make promises you can not keep. You said you would try not to.
You gave her a beautiful teddy bear. She hugged you so tightly. She whispered in your ear how she loved you, and how you would never know how much she did. Then there was silence. Awkwardness. You looked at each other.
She was ready. You never were.
