The Moment I Knew

When all you're wishing for is to be left alone.

Fleeing the party, I found a dark spot under a tree to hide, knees under my chin.

Behind me, leaves crinkled underfoot. Then, Cecil crouched beside me and gave me a long look.

Unable to see the lake ahead, I stared straight into the night. "I said, 'I'm okay.'"

"I know." Cecil sat beside my tree and followed my gaze into the blackness ahead. "You have my number. Nobody else does."

My eyes widened, and my breath skittered to a stop. Fearing I had been caught, I snatched a quick glance.

"I mean for you to use it."

"When is a good time?"

Cecil smirked. "When you need to hear my voice."

"What if--"

The slap across my shoulder stung. "Then, you interrupt."

My lungs took in the sweet air as I leaned back against the tree. With the lightest squeeze on my shoulder, Cecil did the same.

The clouds parted, and moonlight sparkled on the waves.