I like Ben

　　Throughout the ride home, we don’t talk. His kiss was unexpected but my reaction shocked us more. I can’t stop thinking about it, replaying it like a broken record. I kissed Ben. What would he rate my kiss?

　　A pathetic two?

　　The wind slaps my hair into my face, fear of falling off the bike doesn’t allow me to push the annoying strands out of my eyes. His body’s warmth chases the cold seeping into my skin, I tighten my arms around his waist as we skip to a new lane. My cheek presses to his solid back, I try and fail to enjoy my second bike ride. He is moving too fast.

　　Without notice, Ben increases his speed. I yelp and my eyes clench shut. His body shakes with laughter.

　　“Relax, Juliet.” My eyes open, I loosen my vice-like grip on his waist. If I didn’t know better, I would think he loved having my tiny body pressed against his. “You only live once. And, you are in safe hands.”