CHAPTER 3
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(Emery's pov)
As I left the classroom, my heart was still racing from the encounter with Ezra. I couldn't help but smile to myself. The way her eyes had sparkled when she asked for my number had been an unexpected rush of happiness. I wasn't used to this kind of attention, especially not from someone as popular and charismatic as Ezra.
My thoughts were interrupted when I saw Ezra's friends waiting just a few steps away from the door. Josh, Ryan, and Jude wore teasing grins that matched the twinkle in Ezra's eyes. It was clear they had noticed her upbeat mood.
"Talking to your crush put you in such a good mood, huh?" Josh teased, nudging Ezra playfully.
Ezra played along with a cheeky grin, "Well, let's just say I got Emery's phone number."
Her friends erupted in excited chatter, genuinely happy for her. They knew how much I had been crushing on Emery. It was a heartwarming moment of acceptance and support.
(Ryan's pov)
I couldn't help but tease Ezra a bit more, "Emery must be something special if she's got you blushing like that."
Ezra rolled her eyes, but there was a playful glint in them. "Emery is amazing, and I'm lucky to have her number now."
(Jude's pov)
We continued to chat and walk together, congratulating Ezra on her small victory. It was heartening to see her so happy. Emery seemed to have a positive influence on her, and we couldn't be happier for our friend.
(Ezra's pov)
Busying myself with staring at Emery's phone number displayed on my screen, I felt a warm sense of accomplishment. It was a step forward in what felt like a promising connection.
As the school day came to an end, my friends and I headed out together. But I couldn't help myself; I had to see Emery. Spotting her walking home, I made a spontaneous decision. I said my goodbyes to my friends, leaving them with curious smiles.
I pulled my car forward, stopping beside Emery. Rolling down my window, I greeted her with a friendly smile. Emery, caught off guard by my unexpected appearance, blushed once again, unable to meet my gaze.
With a soft chuckle, I spoke up. "Hey, Emery. Want a ride home?" My eyes sparkled with warmth, and my smile was inviting.
(Emery's pov)
I hesitated for a moment, my heart racing. I hadn't expected this offer. As I was about to decline, Ezra continued, her voice gentle and persuasive. "Come on, it's no trouble at all. I'd like to drop you off at your place."
How could I say no to that kind smile? I finally relented, nodding shyly in agreement. I crossed to the other side of the car, and to my surprise, I noticed that Ezra had already come around to the passenger side and was holding the door open for me, a true gentleman.
I became flustered once more, feeling acutely aware of the size difference between me and the car. On my second attempt to get into the car, I felt strong hands gently grab my waist and effortlessly lift me into the seat. Blushing furiously, I muttered a quick thank you as Ezra closed the door with a reassuring smile.
(Ezra's pov)
The journey was filled with Emery giving me directions to her home. Along the way, we engaged in light conversation, sharing small talk and discovering common interests.
Emery seemed surprisingly comfortable in my presence, and her initial shyness began to fade.
As we neared Emery's destination, she asked me to drop her off a couple of blocks away from her house. I agreed, and as the car came to a stop, Emery quickly muttered her thanks and stepped out. She turned onto the next street, leaving me in my car, still stunned by how swiftly she had exited the vehicle.
(Ezra's pov)
I sat there with a contented smile, the memory of our interaction etched in my mind. I promised myself that I would message Emery later that night. Meanwhile, Emery watched me drive away before making her way home, her heart a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts about the unexpected turn her day had taken.
(Emery's pov)
In the quiet streets of Crestwood, two souls had crossed paths in a most unexpected way. As the day unfolded into evening, both Emery and Ezra found themselves thinking about the new connection they had formed and the possibilities that lay ahead.
Their hearts beat a little faster, knowing that something special was beginning to blossom between them. It was a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and perhaps even love, all set against the backdrop of their small town where acceptance and understanding were gradually taking root.