Chapter 9

Josh's words had a profound impact on the atmosphere between us, creating an awkwardness that seemed to loom in the air. Suddenly, a wave of uneasiness washed over me, causing me to feel uncomfortable. His question, "Or I think maybe we can't?" echoed in my mind, interrupting my train of thought.

Though the situation was not necessarily terrible, it was the way Josh expressed himself that left me feeling strange and on edge. Trying to gather my composure, I mustered the courage to respond. "Um, well... yeah," I stammered, feeling an unaccountable nervousness in my voice. "Yes, Josh. Of course, we can, w-why not?" I managed to giggle awkwardly, stumbling over my words.

Josh seemed to find amusement in my tense state, observing me with a smile on his face. Strangely enough, I could not help but find him more attractive at that moment.

After that uncomfortable conversation, we embarked on our journey to school, pedaling together