AN: I recently re-watched Bridge to Terabithia (2007) and I was compelled to write this. It's my take on why Jess chose not to invite Leslie to the museum - especially so soon after having this wonderful adventure with Leslie in Terabithia and realising his newfound love for Leslie (which was bound to overshadow his infatuation for Ms Edmunds).
Disclaimer: I do not own Bridge to Terabithia; this was written purely for enjoyment and not for profit. Also, the two lines of dialogue used in this story are taken directly from the movie (if this is not allowed, please send me a PM).
Ever since that last afternoon, Jess had trouble thinking of Leslie the same way he did before. Every time Jess hears her name, he remembers rain (lots of it), a warm, fuzzy feeling in the pit of his stomach (and crawling all over his skin) and a wonderful and frightening revelation that-
He was in love with Leslie Burke.
Jess lies back on the soft leather car seat and tries to stifle the unwelcome feeling of exhilaration at the thought. He needs to take his mind off of Leslie and Terabithia - at least for a little while.
Once upon a time, going on a trip with Ms Edmunds would have served enough of a distraction to make him forget his own name.
They drive by the old Perkins' place. Jess considers inviting Leslie along - there is no doubt in his mind that Leslie would love to visit a museum.
But then he remembers a stifling, paralyzing fear: fear of rejection, fear of pain, fear of-
"Forget something?" Ms Edmunds asks.
Loving Ms Edmunds is familiar ground. Loving Leslie is a dangerous endeavor and could destroy Terabithia forever.
He just needs time to think. Figure out what this - this thing - is.
"No-no. I-I'm good."