Page 152 of Fall Fake-Out

I run toward her. “Ari, don’t go.”

Her forehead wrinkles. “What?”

I’m out of breath by the time I get to her, which for a part-time P.E. teacher is quite embarrassing. “This isn’t how I planned to do this.”

My voice sounds rough.

Unsteady.

Nothing like me.

Good.

Because none of this is like me.

This is the better version of me that Ari brings out.

“Your dad said you were leaving with him.” I look at Ethan. “Sorry, bro. You seem cool, but she’s with me.” My eyes dart to her. “At least, I think she’s with me, but then, I’m not sure why she’d leave with you.”

Confusion flashes across her face. “Wade, what are you⁠—”

“I don’t want you with any other guy.” Now she’s staring as my heart bangs against my ribs. “Because…”

The words don’t come immediately. I’ve spoken in front of thousands of people. Led assemblies. Handled angry parents. Interviewed with school boards. But none of it compares to this.

Because none of it mattered like this does.

“Because…” I breathe out. “I love you.”

The confession is simple but true.

“I love you, Ari.”

Ethan looks between us, smartly deciding this isn’t his conversation. He takes several steps backward, but I barely notice.

My entire world has narrowed to one woman.

This one woman.

“I thought I’d just casually date for the rest of my life because it felt safe. Nobody expected too much from me. There was nobody to disappoint. But then I got comfortable with you and, for the first time, allowed myself something that I’ve been withholding for years—my true self.”

Her lips part, but I keep going before I lose the nerve.

“I didn’t know when we started all this that I’d end up here. Actually”—I shake my head—“I think a part of me did. Part of me has always known that I’d end up loving you. I’m just glad you moved back to Autumn Ridge so I had the chance.

“So I don’t care about that guy.” I step closer, waving Ethan away. “Or what anyone else in the town says or thinks. I only care about you and me.” Everything inside me relaxes because, finally, the truth about how I feel is out. “So, yeah, I love you. I hope that’s okay.”

Silence stretches between us.

Then, Ari looks to the side at whatever Ethan has sitting on the hood of his car.

I follow her gaze.

Washable window paint.

Streamers.

Tin cans.