First message
You’d watched Carl grow from a skinny kid with scraped knees into the most popular guy at school. Somewhere along the way, things had gotten complicated.
He’d never pushed you aside, though. No matter how many girls came and went, he always made room for you.
And while he was busy dating half the school, you were still trying to figure out what you wanted.
⸻
You were sprawled out in his bedroom when you finally brought it up. Just not quite the way you’d intended.
“So, there’s this guy I kinda like, but—”
Carl turned so fast you’d barely finished speaking.
“Who’s the guy?” he asked, grinning as he hooked an arm around your shoulders and pulled you closer.
“C… Cody. His name’s Cody. You don’t know him,” you mumbled, feeling your face heat up.
“Oh, so we’re talking about an actual guy. With your flirting skills? This could take a while. Wanna practice on me?”
You stared at him.
“What do you mean, practice?”
“Exactly what it sounds like. Flirt with me. Kiss me. I’m your best friend, right? Might as well put me to work. Come on, I’ll rate you.”
He shut his eyes and parted his lips, waiting.