425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD0Q41RlK7O
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdXnxO9WTP3
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡed5obBKCEp
I am quietly installed in my office. This is my own place, in this family home. Far from the adventures of my children, I appreciate being able to breathe calmly from time to time. There, I decompress and take the time to think, to drown myself in my thoughts, in my memories.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB6rQhFY2bW
Suddenly there is a knock at the door. I quickly slip the photo I had been looking at for several minutes into the pocket of my blouse, and pretend to be concentrating on a file. I barely have time to say, “Come in” when the door opens to reveal my daughter. At seventeen and a half years old, she has behaved like a real tornado since the start of her adolescence, four years earlier. However, in her face framed by long brown hair, childhood can still be seen.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbpwwLNpN95
— Mom, I need to talk to you about something super important ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt7LYEEOsWz
I suppress a smile. With Orlane, everything is always mega important ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZXcAUgzZ3s
— Ok I hear you.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9clQhSKKIP
— With Alexandra, we would like to get a tattoo ! She says, excited, as if it’s the best news of the year.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq1y6waS9UB
— A tattoo ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsJxOCxX53R
She nods energetically.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb93EPErg7y
— While you are still a minor ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8X7z0z0DAJ
— Soon to be an adult.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWvYXjJqOa
— Yes, so seventeen years and counting.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSFKblzqp2n
— If you say so. So, is it yes ? I need parental consent to do this.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5JPVyuDYD5
— No way ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgUWlfyU3zH
As I expected, my daughter's face turns an angry red, while her light eyes darken.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡM0Qd0ln0Ib
— You never let me do anything cool ! She shouts, slamming the door behind her.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmQebMPxFZg
Another of these great classics is to avoid any discussion by taking long strides. I hear him scream.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ90pmth4GA9
— She always forbids me from everything ! She’s never there for us ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVzN6LZvhe7
— You exaggerate ! Mom is always there whenever we need her, tries to calm my son down in a paternalistic tone.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcXpi6bHQj
Calm, thoughtful and very mature in nature for a young man of sixteen, my son has a character that is the polar opposite of that of his sister.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVQSmrO30vv
— She’s not a cool mother ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQs2qjN50Mq
I decide to join them in the kitchen.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYXC4RAtsr
— If being fashionable means letting you drink alcohol, do drugs, let you date anyone, or allow you to get tattoos, then no, I'm not cool...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmZE9VV3Ne8
— But why don’t you want to ? After all, it’s just a little drawing on the skin, adds my daughter with a pout.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDStzIBLS9G
My God, how tenacious she is… Like me ultimately.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU8TheYFuBA
— Orlane, the day you want to get a tattoo for a good reason, I will accept, but not to be like your friends.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRvUDMgcsgx
My son looks at us, imperturbable.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY9mi3ETnTR
— You definitely have a tattoo ! She accuses me, angrily.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDDGou8a94Y
I look down, weighing the pros and cons, and end up telling them : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz8ptPE8PE3
— Follow me to the living room, both of you. I need to talk to you.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqAje9735qV
Without a word, they accompany me, and each sit in one of the large armchairs, facing mine.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNLohGrgS59
— You are both old enough now for me to tell you a story. And please don't interrupt me. The story I am about to tell you is personal to me, but it is important that you know it, because it has made us who we are.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4da7nJy9Fe
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcTIcZtcFBE
It all started on September 26, 1991 : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH2Sps0NN4J
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHCjVV9hSaA
Autumn has not yet arrived although the leaves of the trees are starting to turn red under the less intense rays of the sun.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgqT7O5Tljs
I detail my reflection while doing my hair in front of the mirror. I don't think I'm pretty, although many people tell me otherwise. I'm not very tall, I don't have the figure of a top model, in fact, I find myself rather ordinary. Not to mention this damn hair that refuses to stay styled the way I want it ! Giving up trying to tame them, I abandon my hairbrush and go down the stairs of the house. I'm so happy to be in high school where I'm now one of the big guys. Sixteen is the age where my real life begins, the age where my parents finally treat me like an adult and no longer like an immature child. The age when all dreams are achievable and desires possible.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4hbjKoOiNR
My mind escapes for a moment to fly towards Chad, my boyfriend of several months. Chad is young, handsome, athletic and intelligent when he manages to stay focused long enough on his homework instead of thinking about sports, which is hard for him. He's not very tall, but built like a sportsman : all muscles. I like his black hair in a crew cut, and his hazel eyes. We have known each other since childhood. I had been secretly in love with him for years. In high school, I was known for being the type of serious girl, always top of the class, which did not attract boys, much to my despair. Chad is the most popular boy in school, so there was no chance he would be interested in me until a teacher asked me to help him with math. When he finally asked me to go out with him, I couldn't believe it anymore.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuBIl4xhXeK
For six months, Chad and I have been in perfect love...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmaj5xknYcA
Okay, we only exchanged chaste kisses, we don't go out much, instead spending our time watching movies at his house. I also admit that contrary to what I had always imagined, I don't feel this passion that romance novels boast about, perhaps this is due to the fact that we have few things in common. When Chad kisses me, I have the horrible feeling of kissing my best friend but I’m sure that with time, our story will become more intense, passionate and that this feeling will disappear. After all, he’s the one I always wanted so everything will work out in the end.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVns9inEfYU
Letting out a romantic sigh, I enter the kitchen. Almost my entire family is gathered there : Ashley and John, my parents as well as Nina, my younger sister. The only thing missing is Nicolas, my big brother who recently left for New York University and who only comes home for the holidays.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqYTRM3EWnC
— My little Megan… The more I see you, the less you look like my baby, my mother laments, staring at me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT1ynJH8YEK
She isn’t very tall, she has a face with soft features that charms most people she meets. I get her brown hair and blue eyes from her. She always expresses herself calmly, but with conviction.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi5Wi6dvfIx
I act as if his rantings don't matter to me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK0kJZ1Owcp
— Mom, I’ll always be your daughter. And then, you have Nina as a baby…425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGmTfTfe3D
My sister makes a face. At thirteen, she sees herself more as a teenager than as the youngest member of the family.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYbSJMhIWKI
— Are you still planning to go to Chad’s party tonight ? How many will you be ? Asks my father before swallowing his coffee.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXS7vbIlSMZ
— Yes I’m going. There will be about fifty of us.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvUKZlTUOr3
My father coughs and chokes.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6oTQJF0nO
— That much ? Ask my mother in turn.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYtiEmufMMH
I nod yes.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8FlpxiOWUZ
— There will be the whole class as well as Chad's friends, that's a lot of people, he's very popular at school.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJHEYjtRk1p
— That’s true, my father agrees with a touch of pride.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSVe8jx9CTm
Even though he tends to be overprotective, I love my father very much. I find him a handsome man for his age. At forty, his dark brown hair begins to take on gray shades at the temples and expression lines slowly creep into his angular face, further marking his smile and his frown.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPU6uVKcWZa
My father works in construction, his specialty is facade maintenance. He judges each house by the quality of its exterior paint ! My mother is a secretary in a real estate agency, which doesn't excite her, but she has fixed hours, which suits her perfectly. We are a middle class American family. We live in a residential neighborhood in the small town of Millisky, Pennsylvania, where almost everyone knows each other, if only by sight. The town has around five thousand souls. We have a hospital, shops, restaurants, cinemas, and even a large shopping center, so we never get bored. In addition, our town is surrounded by a beautiful forest which allows for long walks, we also have a lake about five kilometers to the south. To the west, a hill overlooks the city, it is the chic district where all the local bourgeois have built their beautiful homes, which most often only serve as second homes. To the north, a highway takes us to Pittsburgh, the nearest major city, a two hour drive, and to the east, Philadelphia is a three hour drive.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCoVXYYWlqZ
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEeSwGjm0Ni
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFt8lGzHzpJ
A little later that day, I'm in the main hallway of the school. It is a large white building, some classrooms have faded walls, originally cream-colored, and the same goes for places of frequent passage. The central corridor has on each side of its walls, two rows of gray lockers stacked on top of each other. I take some books from mine when, turning around, I see a boy of average height, with brown hair and light eyes, walk past me. He looks at me furtively. When I meet his gaze, I feel like I'm falling from a ten- story building. It's a strange thing I've never felt before and it only lasts a few seconds. Coming to my senses, I tell myself that I must be going crazy.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJjVVfuHkPH
— Not bad, admires Amy, my best friend, who followed my gaze.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm0YzzxemdL
— New student ? I'm asking perfunctorily as I'm sure I've never seen it before.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJC2ho4dth
— I’ll find out, says my friend, narrowing her eyes with interest.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0w5cBfHmBR
— In any case, he’s very cute, I can’t help but point out.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyvC6wuMLig
— You're the one who says that, even though you're dating the hottest boy in school ! She exclaims, shocked.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC2J6WSBEWO
I smile, remembering that Chad never wanted to go out with her. He preferred me. It's so rare for a boy to reject her that I know she harbors a little resentment towards me. She has never told me openly but sometimes, like this moment, she throws a little barb at me. Without being mean, it gets heavy some days. However, she has been my friend for so long that I don't see myself falling out with her over such a small matter.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxYMlgd8YzM
Later that day, in history class, I am fascinated by the documentary that the professor shows us concerning the liberation of Europe during the Second World War. This is not the first report I have seen on the subject but each time, I am caught up in the violence, the abomination of this conflict. When the images of the concentration camps appear on the screen, I look away. This is too hard for me, so I concentrate on a completely different theme. Since the start of the course, I have had the strange sensation of feeling observed. As I turn to scan the class, I see the new student sitting two rows behind me, his eyes fixed on me. When he realizes that I have noticed him, he returns his gaze to the screen. I imitate him but after a few seconds, I turn around again.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnNyTlpbcew
Grid ! I thought, giving a hint of a smile as he refocused on the documentary. For long minutes, I no longer dared to move. It's stupid but this boy intimidates me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1xCXIlCGmD
When the film ends, I turn in my seat to follow the teacher as he walks around the class summarizing what we just saw. The newcomer is still staring at me. His look is indecipherable.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx5P4jGXCoH
— Imagine these families separated during endless years of war, imagine their suffering. If you had been in their place, would you have chosen resignation in the face of the invader or would you have opted for resistance ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdZtVvQlg67
I raise my hand, certain of my answer.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr99Ql1WdJl
— Yes Megan.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6x4cQwiwOu
— I would have chosen resistance. Faced with injustice, I think I would have been incapable of looking at the situation without taking part in the fight.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQoxJ2Qg5k
— Good. Someone else's opinion ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7t8QDfA5qO
Many raise their hands including the new one.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSULUUFFkH7
— And you, what do you think ? Asks the teacher, addressing him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFRqAdhV9CZ
— I believe that with hindsight, it is easy to give your opinion, but at that time, people who engaged in the resistance ran enormous risks, not only for themselves but also for those close to them. All this must be taken into consideration.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRJqHSRpioH
— Perfect, Jessy ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrG00IYtc4i
Jessy… 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCOjC3rLo39
I have a hard time taking my eyes off him even though his name resonates within me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3MqxBYMn2
— For the next class, you will write me a presentation on this subject, continues the professor.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNKG5k5oUIy
The bell announcing the end of classes rings, the new guy immediately picks up his things and leaves, bowing his head. It makes me feel like I'm running away from the whole world.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJrhG94BPFL
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4f3dEeZ7Fc
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbP2mNyhJjw
I head to the bathroom to put some gloss on my lips and find my friends Amy and Pearl there.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7S3KuFUYzd
— So, Meg, where are you with Chad ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyKD6FKcLDt
My cheeks immediately turn red.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEZar0se7tj
— There is nothing to say.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu3WdvlYpfI
— Don’t tell us you haven’t done it yet, Amy insists.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnK1w9jkNZL
— Well no… Well, I mean, do you feel ready ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWzIh96g58J
Amy shrugs. I know she hasn't been a virgin for some time.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtdFdMsWV2
— There’s no reason, Pearl assures. You're with the boy you've always wanted, so why not go all the way ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlFEFlmVRI
These words make me think more than they should. I've been dreaming about Chad for years, so why do I feel this stuck ? Why don't my feelings push me to open up completely ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOUeclWqh3O
I feel lost and I know perfectly well that it's not my friends I could confide in. They would immediately judge me, thinking I'm crazy for asking myself a thousand questions when I'm dating a great guy.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMS6770ToZW
If only Nick were here, I thought with regret.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlaJvIaOpVv
My brother would be able to advise me perfectly. It's crazy how much I miss him. Looking forward to the next vacation so he can come back to see us.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjqt6qWyMnN
— By the way, have you seen the new one ? Pearl continues, arranging her brown hair in front of the mirror. He is too beautiful ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJDbAWvi45o
It’s true that he is beautiful ! A finely sculpted body without being skinny and a face with fine features that I find refined, piercing green eyes lined with long eyelashes, slightly messy light brown hair... I also memorized the little chain with at the end a cross that dangles from his left ear giving him a little rebellious side that I find sexy.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFsyXrHU7oh
— I learned a few things about him...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSGBnOs2sRU
This simple sentence from Amy focuses all my attention.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj01Scd28Oc
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbP3iOHOGf
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP2KJvf61LJ
A few hours later, at the end of classes, I found my father in the high school parking lot. This day is important to me. I pass my driving license. I am confident, because for several weeks, Chad has been teaching me everything there is to know and, according to him, I am ready.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZrgr76G3Ad
— Megan, we need to talk, my father begins.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPNYd9PyJJH
Already knowing that I am going to be treated to a moral lesson, I hold back a sigh.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVUrX1O1zSh
— It’s about that party at Chad’s. You know I trust you, but... knowing you with him until late...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgOdFA38AQz
When I don't answer, he continues : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSrgDqmdjRY
— Will you be… serious this evening ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0OOJh1nwgb
— Dad, I'm still a virgin and I don't plan on that changing tonight.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡk3MTOxSL2f
— Thank God, he breathes with relief after grimacing.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBxBxmxz2rT
Shortly after, we return home, me with my license in my pocket and my father with the certainty that I am still innocent.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9icxZU7jhh
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbjNP52qwri
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIqP3zXbqXH
In the evening, I found Chad at his house. He lives in a large, modern and chic house, close to the city center. Their villa includes three bedrooms with an independent bathroom, a games room, an office, a fully equipped kitchen and a gigantic living room which, that evening, easily accommodated fifty guests. Outside, in a garden, in which my entire house could fit, is a heated swimming pool. As the girlfriend of the owner of the house, I make a grand entrance. I'm wearing a pretty black silk dress, perfectly fitted, which suits me perfectly. I turn heads as I pass, especially Chad who only has eyes for me. The party is in full swing, the whole class has gathered there.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvkWNbj0kIM
I'm chatting with Amy in the corner of the room, when I spot the new student, Jessy, standing a little further away. He observes me while chatting with Stanley, a friend of my brother. He stares at me and gives me a small smile to which I can't help but respond.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QyWOmoXcq
Why am I blushing ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6s62LBD3ay
— This guy is so hot. I'm going to go and get to know each other, Amy said to me, scrutinizing Jessy.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwpliDXhnjO
Without knowing why, my heart sinks.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡklpNQFHOZj
— Amy…, my reaction is stupid. You look very pretty with this dress.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFlcPrYzsIy
She smiles. I see her approach Jessy, Stanley quickly walks away while Amy launches into a tirade, pointing out several people in the room. She must inform him of the gossip that is circulating. I can't help the pang of jealousy that creeps into me when I see her place a hand on Jessy's arm. At this moment, he looks up at me, his expression is indecipherable. I have to look elsewhere... But I can't do it.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dRa6zHpeH
— Are you okay, Meg ? You're having fun ? Chad appears in front of me and places his hands on my hips.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz9pQHplDDI
Finally I take my eyes off Amy and the new guy. I have to think about something other than his green eyes which make me feel like they are penetrating my soul.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5zrGlgDnJz
I place my lips on my boyfriend's in a brief kiss.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWIySDvv39Y
— Where were you ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUncUlH4mCZ
— I was walking around the house. Haven't you noticed that some people look like they've been drunk ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2K60PWcFXJ
— Yes, I met Matt earlier, he reeked of alcohol.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuPb5Ws6EnR
— Great, Chad breathes, annoyed. If my parents find out about this, I'm dead.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHcfVjUf9LD
I glance in Jessy and Amy’s direction. He has disappeared while she returns to us, blowing : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv2jdVOovCa
— This guy is weird ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKo5saQyWv
— What happened with Jessy ? I said, trying to contain my relief.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUVIiyqcMbl
— I don’t know, I was talking to him and, suddenly, he went out to get some fresh air. Who invited him anyway ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkOl8LVKIbt
— It's me. We had a class together, I told him it would be the best way to meet people.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwuANeq6RF7
How nice Chad is ! That's why I love him, my heart reminds me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpA7vxsM1p1
— I’m going to try to find out who brought the alcohol, he continues.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJUNHMsDzrC
— I am coming with you.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjCCbLuci6S
We leave Amy in the living room and head towards the kitchen. A group of American football players, of which Chad is the quarterback, are seated there.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAbhuol6ps3
— Damn, you guys are annoying ! I warned you though : no alcohol.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlxFzwf4T8R
My boyfriend raises his voice.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6q3C9pmsBd
— Relax, Chad, it's just beers.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7ISG063gZo
— Beers or not, if my parents find out I'll be in big trouble, get rid of it ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡELvQqfvXs6
The five young people take their bottles while complaining and drop one which spills down the front of my dress.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn9ZJFYXC5O
— It’s clever ! Chad exclaims as I gape.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXdtLuGMT0j
I grab a roll of paper towels and try to wipe the alcohol off, to no avail.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRQ4Mhk7ZJD
— Come with me, my boyfriend said, taking me by the hand. I don't mean to be offensive, but you stink of alcohol. We're going to have problems with your parents if you leave like that again.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH6KPnC5tes
— I know, it’s because of your stupid friends ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn7wHncWu6y
— I'm sorry. I have an idea. Go take a shower, and in the meantime, I'll wash and dry your dress and off you go, neither seen nor known ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcVPYZzxn2D
Having little choice, I accept.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDCymmu20hs
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfJRF14Dr0R
Several minutes later, which seemed like an eternity, I found Chad in his room. I am in my bathrobe and my boyfriend is holding my clean dress in his hands when there is a knock at the door. Neither of us has time to make a move that Amy and Pearl are already initiating. They stand in the doorway, look at us and mutter an apology before closing the door, giggling.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwsNM3Yk0t
— Great, they’re going to think anything now, I mutter angrily.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡb3lO7hCb9x
— But no, they are your friends. You just need to explain the situation to them when we get down.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgA6HzJ5Une
I'm not convinced, but Chad is right, they are my friends, they will definitely believe me. And then, I have nothing to reproach myself for.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIzAR4hXPlP
Clearly, this evening is far from being the evening I dreamed of ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4BEbd9AZdT
When we join the guests on the ground floor, I immediately feel that they are staring at me with eloquent little smiles. I'm going to pour myself a glass of non alcoholic punch when Amy and Pearl come to talk to me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOYHJ5nZXLm
— So, Meg, how was it ? Is Chad as good a shot as he seems ? Amy asks me, with a spark of curiosity in her eyes.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrPMDJQqD2A
— What are you talking about ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7VsqJMfnLs
— Of you and Chad half naked in his room ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXsSfUjJquu
— That’s not at all what you think ! Nothing happened ! Some idiots had spilled beer on me. I had to take a shower while Chad cleaned my dress and he was dressed in case you didn't notice ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaaOOO2i35v
It annoys me to have to justify myself as if I had committed a crime.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdLH0iSEiO
— But of course ! Pearl replies, giggling with Amy before walking away towards other students in our class.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU78h5XDRY9
This story is crazy, and the worst part is that no one wants to believe me, not even my best friends, at least the ones I thought were real friends. The looks that I already found embarrassing became even more insistent, and shame invaded me. It’s a shame to feel this ! Sensing my discomfort, Chad comes to join me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡObLajv6fHu
— I'm going back.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡremKGQUgCl
— But no, stay, you're not going to let these idiots ruin your evening ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcEsLJbbdrI
He hugs me tightly to reassure me, but425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpYD6ePlWAc
I gently push him away. There are already enough comments as it is, there is no point in adding more.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5aZNO8ROdi
— No, I'm going back. See you tomorrow ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6rOMCfJ0q
Disappointed, he acquiesces. I kiss him on the tips of his lips as we usually do.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ7JO9TplXI
— You don’t want me to take you home ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡotBsh99W4w
— I need to walk...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhhkfe6ledt
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDLHQwlXxWQ
It feels good to be alone and to be able to enjoy the peace and quiet of the cool night. The moon just makes a crescent in the sky. Looking up, I admire the stars which, far from everything, don't care about the gossip that runs on Earth. Tears burn my eyes, I feel more alone than ever on this Earth which is definitely not running smoothly.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtr8uR5DsOI
— Did you need to get some fresh air ? A soft voice nearby asks, bringing me out of my reverie.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtmS41SL92b
Jessy is by my side, looking up to the sky.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTNE2j3chdd
— Yes. Exactly. You too ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuo8IkviV3h
This is the first time I've seen him up close. Immediately, my heart races. A small diamond shines in his ear, replacing the cross he wore during the day. Two locks frame his forehead, falling in front of his eyes when he lowers his head. I know I shouldn't stare at him like that, but I can't help it. I feel like an insect attracted by a light that hypnotizes it. He looks at me, gives me a smile. Why do I feel so intimidated around him ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh8zGDmbGfV
A breath of wind rises, making me shiver. Jessy takes off his black leather jacket and hands it to me, I put it on and thank him. Does he notice my trouble ? I don't know, but from his piercing gaze, I suspect he's enjoying the situation.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5QoV26yew
— Yes, I needed to get some fresh air too, I don’t really like crowds. I saw you leaving, I thought maybe you’d like some company ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoK9hByiQkc
— If you want, I shrug casually while being happy that he noticed me. Jessy, is that right ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6vVdstX4C
He nods with a smile.
— I'm Meg...
— Megan, I know.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq2LnUi3Jjk
I look at him, surprised.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbuZaw01ga
— Good. What else do you know about me ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡczaHDCdB7G
— Let’s see… You’re the best student in class, and you’re dating the star player of the football team.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmblCaOVVSA
— You're good ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6JfvQ0cDCM
— I guess you must have heard something about me too ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdYoI7374X0
— Not much, actually. I just know that you are seventeen, that you have just arrived in Millisky and that you are repeating your school year.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmvUlRXRns7
— Everything is true. It's not that serious ? What upsets you..., he adds to my astonishment.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1SM58L0Gat
— No, there are much worse things in life. It's nothing, just nonsense.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqEU2wo6FpS
— If it’s so harmless, then why did you leave your boyfriend’s party ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhesBbkqliv
— Maybe because, this evening, I saw the true faces of my so called friends. My confidence in them melted like snow in the sun.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO0UOlAAUL2
Jessy sighs as she looks up again to look at the starry sky.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGzP7ZWFjEJ
— I know this feeling of disappointment well.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbRwoxJ6l0Q
— Did this happen to you too ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwygs2nWHFd
He seems surprised that I am interested in him and turns to me, burying his hands in the pockets of his pants.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEcTOcmMkkJ
— To be betrayed, disappointed ? Oh yes ! Although I don't understand why your friends would turn their backs on you.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG3cQaG8Thy
— Haven't you heard the gossip spread by Amy and Pearl ? They told everyone that I slept with Chad. Even though I told them that this is not the case, they did not believe me, and worse, they preferred to continue to denigrate me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1YFakkExCD
As I tell him this, I search his eyes to check if he is sincere or if he is making fun of me like the others.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ9k54cjXlD
— I have learned to no longer listen, and even less believe, what people say out of pure malice or jealousy. I am convinced that you are telling the truth.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbjzatHoMSf
— You seem very sure of yourself for someone who doesn’t know me ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzN3nFVpHp4
He locks his gaze on mine before responding : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ENnbmLhSs
— I see in you.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyAeb9CqsBG
This response leaves me speechless and upsets me more than it should. Faced with him, with his words, I feel lost. Fortunately, we arrived on my street and I just want to be alone to try to analyze what I feel.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOPSVMmTUnM
— Thank you, I said, handing him back his jacket. And thank you for taking me home.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGBWJnO4YLT
— At your service, he says, turning left while I continue straight.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO2pzr7b9mu
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE83mdIlpyZ
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6dtEh5N7iS
The following days, nothing erases this attraction which pushes me towards Jessy. This makes me feel so guilty that I try to focus on my relationship with Chad, without really succeeding. As for Jessy, I feel like he's been running away from me since the other night. He looks away as soon as I look at him and doesn't speak to me anymore. I don't know what I did wrong for him to ignore me like that, but it pains me a lot. Perhaps he also ended up believing the nonsense that was circulated about my relationship ? If that were the case, I would be extremely hurt.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMaH85Ht54
It was during history class that the teacher gave me the opportunity to get closer to him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtOrjJhkGY
— I asked each of you to write a presentation on the last lesson.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUvvaP7bgpZ
At these words, several students point to their copy on their table.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJpLUE4RoGA
— Jessy, can you pick them up ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaJinBTAngy
This one executes. When he reaches my height, his gaze finally anchors on mine. I feel like seconds are becoming minutes. At this very moment, I realize how much I've missed Jessy these past few days. His hand brushes against mine as I hand him my paper, making me want to grab it and never let go.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3L1p16C4dL
As if reading my thoughts, Jessy narrows his eyes slightly and purses his lips. Then he turns away towards the next table, breaking the spell that united us as the professor continues speaking : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCpzIEIxns8
— To find out what you have learned from this course, I have prepared a written quiz for you.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuWP1Nv21QV
Immediately, boos are heard.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNxDv8Pve7X
— Yes, I know, I'm not nice. While you answer the questionnaire, I will go through your presentations and form teams of two. For next week, you will have to refine your different points of view, compare them, in order to share them in front of the whole class.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSMzJP0TjAJ
Although I am a good student, I don't particularly enjoy being on the board in front of everyone else and am already worried about who I will have to work with. As long as it's neither with Amy nor with425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHFmn13MjXw
Pearl. I haven't spoken to them since the party at Chad's.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB35whlaAw7
They tried to come see me on Monday but I totally ignored them. Even if I find myself alone most of the time, Chad does not share all of my classes, I prefer that to being poorly accompanied.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Ffr5bahXs
For long minutes, I put these thoughts aside to concentrate on the questioning.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoHLrt7j9uv
When I finish, I raise my head and look behind me, towards Jessy who finishes a few seconds after me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm9a8nd7ZVy
The teacher notices us because he tells us : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0i2Naj5MJ
— Alright. Megan and Jessy, you'll be teaming up next week. You can go.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDCXaEzwy29
At the same time, we get up and put our homework on the teacher's desk before leaving the classroom.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4xkkP0ZcZy
I thought we were going to be able to discuss this project but already Jessy is quickly moving away.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6mFE0ZHHVH
— Jessy, wait ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7mM07SsYMh
He slows down, but doesn't stop.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlCIQ8FixED
— We need to discuss how we are going to approach this presentation.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhjTttgugJV
His shoulders relax and he exhales.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhyyLxAx3hX
— I don't like working with others. So I suggest you do your part on your own, I will do the same and we will meet again before the next class to compare our points of view.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZJ5EelBQe0
— Thank you for your proposal but I refuse. There's no way I'm going to get a bad grade because you're antisocial.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeXQeJS0Iyu
— I'm not…425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEYpc9DpmrA
Before he finishes his sentence, I raise an eyebrow which interrupts him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX5wp5Rzdiz
— Okay, maybe I am a little, he admits with a little smile. Alright, you win Megan.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6ZaQibFR9w
Feeling like I need to take advantage of my advantage before he changes his mind, I quickly scribble my address on a piece of paper and hand it to him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl7beswRWlB
— Come to my place at the end of classes, we will be quiet to study.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoDcgs1zRec
— Thanks for the address but we could just as easily meet up after school and go to your house together.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOFh76fED6C
Why didn't I think of that ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeB0lmgF6p2
I refrain from slapping myself.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDUyU4eSRAr
Embarrassed by my stupidity, I smile shyly. Jessy leans towards me, slips my address into his pocket and adds mischievously : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJjQYstM7Je
— I'm keeping it anyway. You never know, you might get lost along the way.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhXF8jpX6y9
I don't understand why just looking at him, talking to him, puts me in this state. I feel my cheeks on fire and I am certain that when I open my mouth, nothing but nonsense comes out.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNBhD6ps3zU
But what is happening to me ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ88OCzdaXri
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjybr9M2nb8
During the next class, I feel Chad's gaze, sitting at the desk next to mine, weighing on me suspiciously. I do my best to appear comfortable and innocent until he hands me a paper.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡucbDfqXPvZ
What's going on with Jessy ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUyZLRJKuU1
Astonished, I wrote : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc2cC9b420S
What ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWpTUtLMvCZ
Chad's response was quick : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIx5Fl27CaI
Amy told me you two seem close and that I should be worried. It's the case ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYawKEj5ICq
Anger replaces disbelief. What the hell is his problem ? Is she not tired of taking care of my life, of making up stories for me ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkBGiyWuQeS
No, not at all. We just have a presentation to make together. 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoMn3aOJnHm
A smile lights up Chad's features. I managed to reassure him, yet I fear I may not have been completely honest with him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9rRKnbxRYJ
As I look at his profile, I have to recognize that my boyfriend no longer inspires in me the feelings that inspired me just a few months ago. I feel myself detaching myself from Chad, I come to wonder if I was only in love with him one day or if I have always confused love and friendship. Slipping my hands through my hair, I breathe deeply. The only thing I know for sure is that I am lost in my emotions.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9yIAp9m6h
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUxJXjOpAgg
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJmlMYjefIk
At the end of class, Jessy comes to join me, backpack on his shoulder and a book in hand.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDaVimTKdTZ
— I love this book. I must have read it about ten times since last year, he tells me. I thought you might like to read it ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzJbWCn9xKW
While walking the streets, I quickly skim a few pages.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ54kMCxtoxF
— Do you mind if I save it to read tonight ? I'll give it back to you tomorrow.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0Md3Qrq69
— On the contrary. It’s so rare that I meet people who like to read something other than comics.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBMpn3FoqWd
— I understand you. Comics are Chad's favorite reading.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaiFUuc9PU4
— I'm not surprised, Chad seems more of an athlete than a cerebral one.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzKluBlpXop
I am left speechless.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgAowdnwQAk
— Are you always this frank ? Can't help but ask him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKKH4c2HsjI
He shrugs his shoulders while responding : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC9OBvCpAyl
— Very often. I hurt you ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYBq0deajmp
I thought for a few seconds before answering him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf4FNYBas6X
— No. I must admit that it is the truth.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHWLbbji3Q
His smile widens, making me melt a little more.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE8auuyX5Oe
Arriving home, we sit in the living room and chat about the homework we have handed in. We both think we'll get good grades. My mother comes home from work and walks into the living room, surprising us. I suddenly feel uncomfortable being with a boy other than Chad under my parents' roof. I jump up, followed by my guest.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8cifUeRtpB
— Hey, Ch…, it’s not Chad, she smiled.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡavWpZjGFs3
— Mom, this is Jessy.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVMyRDBisE
They greet each other.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Wi075d17q
— We have a presentation to give to the whole class about the Second World War.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxKbMrmVJAk
With a nod, Jessy confirms my words. Since my mother arrived, he hasn't said a word, and seems intimidated. This adds as evidence : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqHo2Dzc9Pw
— Jessy, are you staying to eat with us this evening ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC0HSfPg5E2
He shrugs his shoulders.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhJtvpXoUYU
— I don't want to bother you…425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcASSFG7bb3
— Don't worry, I still cook too much since Nick left for college.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR1AH73VlJl
— Nicolas is my older brother…425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBNdQ5b4fpV
— It would be a pleasure to have you with us. My husband is tired of being surrounded by girls.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJM83j3TYiK
— Okay then, Jessy said, smiling. Thanks ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuvLgbk80mD
A little later, he met my father, then Nina. When it was time to sit down at the table, without anyone telling her, Jessy naturally took a seat next to me. I control myself so as not to let my disorder appear in front of those close to me. I feel myself vibrate every time his arm brushes mine. From time to time, Jessy looks at me sideways and gives a little amused smile, and I immediately blush ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbqaVvwf1qs
The meal passes in a good atmosphere until Nina, as usual, says out loud what she is thinking : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2saX69qd85
— You're not bad, Jessy, but I prefer Chad. It is awesome ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPPOqeNLovg
— Nina ! We don't say that kind of thing ! Reprimands my mother.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4F369QsZ6V
— For what ? I tell the truth.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhxtduHYC8K
— Chad is nice, Jessy responds politely.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK8ix24H4RR
— And he’s strong ! Nina continues, making me want to throw myself over the table and strangle her.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjgd6TABVyT
— It’s true, Chad is a great athlete, adds my father. He also taught Megan how to drive. Considering the number of guests at his party the other night, he's also very popular. He has everything going for him, this boy, says my father, whom I would like to strangle at the same time as my sister.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnfzNqm89RJ
— It’s true that he’s really lucky, Jessy whispers, looking at me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtY755ist0r
I stare at him, not knowing how to react. I have a sudden and insane desire to throw myself into his arms to kiss him, this idea scares me as much as his words made me happy. Also, I'm left speechless, which makes him smile more.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrojkwFrzKO
At the end of the meal, Jessy helps me clear the table, then asks me where the bathroom is. I tell him. My mother then approaches me and gives me a little smile.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOgqshfYVmc
— This boy is very nice, she comments quietly so that only I can hear. And very cute at that.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpurRCmvVgY
I glance at him sideways, smiling.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmJcSR7KxPP
"I suppose you know what you're doing ? "425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsZ2iZU3YY5
— Not really.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3cXmDQb3fx
— Meg, you’re sixteen. You didn't make a lifelong commitment to Chad. You are all young, you have the right to be carefree. I was, at your age, and I didn't know your father until much later, when I decided to settle down.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDWTXB1SLub
— You know very well that I am too serious to let myself be guided by my emotions without having first thought for hours.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMbcfmGOKKT
— Yes, I know, my mother sighs. And at first glance, I would say that Jessy seems to be just like you.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnxD4raTC8Q
— You think that…425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVJDFrcsWpq
I want to ask her if she thinks Jessy is interested in me, but I leave it hanging when I see him coming back to us.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqS90miAmy0
— Thank you very much for inviting me to your table. It's getting late, I'm going to go home.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1UwRSwRQ9M
— Wait, I'm going to walk with you for a while.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1tkn0HSA3a
Jessy nods before going to grab his jacket hanging on a hook in the entryway.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVsCBY8Asu
— Thanks again ! Have a good evening everyone, he says as he leaves.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFCiJOUGwf8
— Megan ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxJzVq9xsLA
I turn to my mother who is standing in the hallway, at the entrance to the kitchen.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL0yh8mZrHX
— I am sure of it ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaToqg9QXFM
I give him a big smile.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCrrykErlT
— She is sure of what ? Asks Jessy who heard everything from the porch.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjfKaD48IOy
— Oh, you're welcome, just something I asked him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP7nZQ0Vz5X
Fortunately, he doesn't insist.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz98NIkxjXa
We walk down the sidewalk in silence.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRWaguFBr2R
My neighborhood is a quiet place, where all the houses425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5qiZnQh4fb
look alike with their little white fence surrounding the garden. Only the colors of the houses vary from one to another, sometimes white with blue shutters, sometimes brown with red shutters. Our family home is cream with green shutters. My father makes a point of maintaining it well, repainting it as soon as the paint shows signs of age, and mowing the lawn regularly. This corner of the city is not known for being the richest, but at least its inhabitants ensure that nothing can damage it. I love this quiet little town which seems to live as if in a cocoon where nothing serious ever happens and where the smallest event, like the arrival of Jessy, is experienced as big news. This thought pulls me out of my reverie and, turning back to my companion, I decide to question him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqRoHfS9pJq
— Did you move here alone ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUhzdkeXj0v
This seems incongruous to me since he is only seventeen, but I never see him with anyone, not even in town.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkLIujJZDBs
— No, I live with my mother.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg8OwE5ngxJ
— And your father ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3D36WAKEvx
— My father died when I was a kid.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡucL8lteuKZ
— Sorry.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4OgVGiPSqw
— It's nothing. My mother remarried and I have a little brother, Jason, who is now seven.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv4Ok1FEvfB
— So your father in law and your brother live with you ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxgzdEEURHv
Jessy grimace. 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFxQCj83ERL
— No, they stayed in Allentown.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8n68l0RkRD
— For what ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLtVTKnt1PG
Jessy gives me a big smile while answering : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefTsk9jd8M
— Joker ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLYRLDEI9IX
Preferring not to insist, I move on to other questions : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtPAgLJsXpO
— Why did you leave Allentown ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrQupIBR4A2
— Re joker ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTcg8HpI5nz
— OK. I always see you alone... but you must have friends ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAMR51pChJj
— You know, I just arrived and I don’t know anyone yet, except you. In Allentown, I had friends, or so I thought, but..., he interrupts himself, purses his lips, shaking his head : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXfWBPgPJAW
— I don't want to talk about it... Let's just say, sometimes you think you know people and you're wrong.
— Like me the other night...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLAQEURihBv
Looking serious, he nods.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWF2TF0OhdQ
— So you’re from Allentown ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpN3sfYJ3Ch
— Yes, I lived in a small neighborhood where everyone had known each other forever, a bit like this one. (He looks around.) Except that in town, we couldn't see the stars as well.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMQ5XddoiRr
I follow his gaze, staring at the sky illuminated by hundreds of sparkling points that no cloud hides. I feel very small and fragile in the face of this immensity. It's strange to find myself next to this boy to whom I feel close and who, at the same time, intimidates me so much.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡspBvC2pBHH
— Your family loves Chad very much, he said suddenly, breaking this magical moment. How long have you been together ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9z0VFmdaJZ
I sit on the low wall bordering a house for sale.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuLJ1b9RJIh
— My father was a big athlete in high school and I think he recognizes himself in Chad. My mother finds him cute and nice, and my sister is in love with him, I think ! (I smile.) He and I have known each other for a very long time, since kindergarten in fact…425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVSzEgYy2Pi
— And you’ve always loved him, Jessy adds, sitting down next to me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLzBZphkjc0
I blush and lower my head.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbKFNsu0WNb
— It’s complicated… But let’s talk about you instead. Did you leave a girlfriend in Allentown ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSykZBIaBlV
Jessy turns to me and raises his eyebrows, visibly surprised. I stare at him, both impatient and dreading his answer.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmZ9idrs5Oo
— Your question is strange...
— Why ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzqf5VvKUv0
— Because you're dating the perfect guy according to everyone around you, so I wonder what your questioning is hiding.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwZySxBIEnz
— It wasn’t you who told me that you shouldn’t necessarily listen to what others say ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkTcsDdC509
— Touché, he smiled. Let's say I had a girlfriend.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcDNVAdOelD
— You still have ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKlVhlPtgMD
— Well no, we split up...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLstttR2cyV
I don't give him time to finish his sentence as my lips are already on his. Immediately, he kisses me back.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNhzJUgcXgK
His lips are soft and warm on mine, I feel him slide a hand to my waist, pulling me closer to him until, as suddenly as it began, he pushes me back forcefully before standing up abruptly. jump, visibly annoyed.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QNTUNhbIl
— That’s not true ! Why did you do it ? He writes to himself while standing in front of me, hands on hips waiting for a response.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6IJFUrxmfq
— I don’t know, I said as sincerely as possible. Since I met you, I have felt lost. I don't know why but I feel like I've known you forever and this feeling totally upsets me. I was hoping you felt the same way I did.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡblAIgRrbuR
Far from calming down, Jessy walks away from me, walking as quickly as he can. I get up and run after him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgzq2aAvlW
— Jessy, wait ! What is happening ? Please don't tell me that kiss was that bad ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL01JidHRA8
He doesn't stop though. I grab him by one arm, forcing him to stop his way.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEy29VFG2GE
He glares at me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlhKthUGe15
— I'm sorry if... I shouldn't have kissed you, but I honestly thought you wanted to too.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4uYMnz96Ub
— It is, he whispers, staring at me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdzSKHre2qO
— So where is the problem ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQ4q1fEdUO
— I can not do that.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHGz1HMh3nU
— But why ? I know that compared to Chad it's a bad thing but...425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpU48ZeGzC
— It has nothing to do with him. The problem is me. I'm not made for love, he gets angry again. I gave too much, now that is forbidden to me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8m5twTj7KF
He frees himself from my hand before continuing on his way. Staying there, I say to him : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvxMhYB8rzy
— I don't understand ! You can't pretend to want to kiss me and then run away like that a second later. It's not me who made you suffer so why should I pay for what others made you endure ? I'm not your ex ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4op1wxANRJ
Abruptly, he stops his running, turns around before coming back towards me. His features are distorted by anger but I also read a form of pain there.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9P7KmOcDkw
— No, you are not the one who changed my life and I in no way wish to become the one who changes yours in the same way ! My life is ruined Meg, I'm already at the end. I'm going to die, he adds when he sees that I don't understand his words.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡntKYQCOSuI
— Wh... What ? I stammer, in shock.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNn2UyHrYrn
He gets closer. His face is only a few centimeters from mine.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIIfqHkYSgS
— Meg, I'm HIV positive. I have the AIDS virus, he admits quietly so that no one else can hear him, although the street is deserted. So stay away from me, believe me it's better ! 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡboC43p3ay0
He leaves as quickly as possible. Soon night envelops it completely. For a long moment, I stay there, dismayed, unable to make the slightest gesture, no longer knowing what to think. His words seem to spin in my head like a wild merry go round that no one can stop. I don't know how long I stand on that sidewalk looking in his direction long after he's gone.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ246JaTjTeF
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjeAupkgFxz
425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjf4wqpzDWx
When I get home, I try not to let anything show and lock myself in the kitchen. I thought I would be safe, but as soon as I closed the door, my mother opened it and stuck her head in.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtDT5wN0NVn
— Are you okay, Meg ? You're very pale, aren't you sick ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjEj8bjOkyD
— Everything is fine. I miss Nicolas, I would like to talk to him.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLKoagCmiif
Understanding the message, my mother nods and closes the door behind her. Immediately, I grab the phone and dial my brother’s number. Luckily he answers after two rings.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxaFPsPunrm
— Hello ? he says, happily.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrsTdRz9fK2
— Nick, it’s me.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGCY9UEmRL3
I'm having a hard time keeping the tremors in my voice at bay.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡykEADXDQDv
— Meg, what’s going on ? He worries.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ztfnzhKiE
The day I met Jessy, I told my brother that same evening. He seemed happy that a boy other than Chad was messing with me. For some reason, Nick always grimaced at my relationship with Chad. 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHRG4F5oNzU
— Jessy came to the house for dinner this evening... 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsijawiz1gc
— Oh, he sighs, he threw you away.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwCfy72nez4
I think about the way I kissed him and feel myself blushing again. If I had known how he was going to push me away, I would never have let myself be carried away by my desire.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGnflvqAua8
— Yes, but that’s not the worst, I sob. Jessy admitted to me that she was sick.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVGR5RL5tEc
Realizing the horror of the situation, I fall to the ground. I am not afraid of AIDS, I know that I risk nothing. But I am terrified for Jessy, for his future which is likely to be short. My brother doesn't speak, he gives me time to calm down. When my sobs dry up, I continue : 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdleZfcnzfh
— Jessy is HIV positive, I blurt out in one breath.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxDL33hl4Zz
A gasp of surprise escapes my brother.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE51L5AMXcy
— Okay, he breathes, making me understand that he’s thinking about the situation. What are you going to do ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ58INGJImI7
— I don't know. Nick, I need to know your opinion.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdOtMq4zSY1
— I admit that I didn't expect that at all. Do you see yourself turning your back on him ? 425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq2sv5DFXT4
— I wouldn't be able to.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWUCj2Hfc8G
— Meg, I know this probably isn't the kind of relationship you imagined, but based on what you've told me so far about this guy, I think right now he especially needs support and friendship. Don’t reject him because he doesn’t match your ideal.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOBeEUfd4c5
— Exactly, he corresponds to my ideal and the fact that he is ill changes nothing. If I am devastated it is because AIDS is an incurable disease. I don't want him to die, Nick, I'm crying again.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcoadAE9Nmn
I am aware that I have only known him for a short time but, without being able to explain it, he has already marked my existence.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡitjQScBfmo
— Come on, little sister, don’t cry. For now, Jessy is alive and, even if he keeps you at a distance, I'm sure he would be happy to have you in his life. Try to make him smile while he's here. He must need to think about something other than this crap.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgnixZJRmFC
— You're right. Nick, what I confided to you must absolutely remain between us. No one should know.425Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtgRr5YLSsA
— Finally you know me ! Come on now tell me how he dumped you ! He laughs as I bite my lip in shame.
