In the small town of Maplewood, two high school seniors, Mia and Liam, had never really spoken much. They had mutual friends, sat near each other in class, but their worlds were separate. Mia was the quiet, bookish type, always with her nose in a novel, while Liam was the charming class president, adored by everyone.
One rainy afternoon, after a long day of classes, Mia found herself standing at the bus stop, waiting for the last bus to take her home. Her umbrella was barely holding up against the heavy rain, and she didn’t want to get soaked on her way home. As the minutes ticked by, she grew increasingly worried—this was the last bus, and she couldn’t miss it.
Just as she was about to step closer to the curb to get a better view of the road, a voice interrupted her thoughts.
“Need some help with that?” Liam stood there, holding a large umbrella, his hair damp from the rain.
Mia looked up, surprised. “Liam? What are you doing here?”
“I could ask you the same thing,” he chuckled. “But, you seem like you’re in a bit of a jam. Let me walk you home. It’s dangerous out here with the rain and all.”
Mia hesitated for a moment but then nodded. It wasn’t like she had much of a choice, and besides, he was being kind.
They walked in silence for a few minutes, the rain pattering against the umbrella. Mia was a little nervous, unsure of what to say, but Liam seemed comfortable, occasionally glancing at her with a warm smile.
“So, what’s your favorite book?” he asked suddenly.
Mia’s eyes widened in surprise. “Oh, um, I like fantasy novels, mostly... My favorite one is The Enchanted Forest.”
“That sounds interesting. I’ve never really read fantasy, but I might check it out.” Liam grinned. “You’re full of surprises, Mia.”
They continued talking, the awkwardness melting away as they shared stories about their childhood, their favorite hobbies, and even their dreams for the future. The conversation flowed easily, and Mia felt a connection she hadn’t expected.
When they finally reached her house, Liam stopped and smiled. “Well, here we are. Thanks for letting me walk you home.”
Mia smiled back shyly. “Thank you for helping me. I really appreciate it.”
Liam took a step closer, his expression softening. “Mia, I’ve been meaning to say this for a while, but... I think you’re amazing. You’re different in the best way. I like being around you.”
Her heart skipped a beat. “Liam, I...”
Before she could respond, Liam gently lifted her chin, and in that moment, under the rain, he kissed her softly on the lips. It was brief, but it sent a wave of warmth through her.
“I’ll see you tomorrow?” he whispered as he pulled away.
Mia nodded, her cheeks flushed. “Tomorrow.”
As he walked away, she stood there, staring after him, a smile spreading across her face. It seemed that sometimes, the most unexpected moments could change everything. And from that day on, their bus rides home were never the same.
