It happened one warm afternoon after school. We were walking home together, like always. The cicadas were loud, and the air smelled of grass and summer.
We reached the corner where we usually parted. I looked at her, and she smiled.
"Thanks for walking with me every day," she said.
"Always," I replied.
She stepped closer, stood on tiptoe, and gently kissed my cheek.
I was stunned.
"See you tomorrow," she said, turning away quickly.
I touched the spot where she kissed me. It felt like my entire face was glowing.
I didn't sleep much that night.