I crossed my arms as Rowan started messing with the zipper of his school varsity jacket.

“So…what did you want to talk about?” I asked.

Rowan stopped playing with his zipper and started to speak.

“I know you and Jack hurt you a lot…and I know you aren’t ready for something like that again,...but I was wondering…if you could possibly…consider it…with me,” Rowan said, blushing.

I stood there shocked for a minute. I quickly shook my head and asked, “What do you mean? What would I consider with you?”

“I mean would you consider possibly going out with me. I like Riley. A lot,” Rowan said.

I could suddenly feel my face heating up. 

What was this feeling? I couldn’t be falling again.

“I…don’t…know,” I said, unsure.

“What if I took you on at least three dates? Then you could decide if you wanted to continue going out with me,” Rowan said.

I stood there, thinking for a minute.

“I’m not sure,” I said.

“That’s ok,” Rowan said, calmly as if he was expecting this to happen. “Take all the time you need to decide. Even if you say ‘no’ I would be more than happy to continue being your friend.”

Rowan was being so nice about the whole situation.

Suddenly I heard myself say, “Three dates. I’ll go on three dates with you.”

Rowan’s face lit up, making me smile.

“Awesome,” Rowan said. “I have the perfect first date already planned.”

“Sounds great,” I said with a smile still on my face.