Chapter 12: Chapter 12: Dance Rehearsal

Nancy’s POV

Carter has such a vulnerable look on his face right now. I need to be careful about how I go about explaining my feelings.

“Carter, sit down for a second, okay?” I say, quietly as though I’m coaxing a scared animal not to run. He sits back down in his chair. I can tell he’s holding his breath in worry and anticipation.

My voice softens, “I love you, Carter. I do. But I’ve never looked at you and felt anything romantic. If anything, the longer we’ve been friends, the more I see you as a brother.”

Carter’s face sinks in despair; his eyes gloss over with unshed tears, and his mouth forms a frown I’m not used to seeing on him.

“You’ve always treated me the same way. I can’t recall any difference between the before and after you decided you wanted more than just friendship with me.” I place my hands on my hips and watch Carter’s face.