She was running from him. Why? Because he knew the truth now. He knew that she loved him and she couldn't bear it.
Carmen Howle only ever went to this particular place when she was really sad. It was a river. There was a forest behind it but the river was where Carmen really relaxed.
She sat down, sobbing, her black hair falling into her face as she cried. Why, why had that bitch Lily told him? She'd shown him Carmen's diary for God's sake, why did she have to do that?! She was a fake best friend and Carmen didn't care any more. She hated Lily with a passion now.
Her eyes closed. Carmen felt her makeup running down her face. She'd been wearing eyeliner and mascara lately and it was now running and she probably looked like a zombie. Honestly, right now she didn't care. All she wanted was for someone to come and hold her and tell her how everything was going to turn out okay.
Carmen wasn't sure how long she'd been there when he arrived. He sat beside her and placed his hand on her shoulder. Carmen brushed her hair from her face and turned her mascara-stained face to look at Johnny. He saw her face, her tears, and his face changed. His expression became sad.
He leaned over and pressed his lips to hers. It was a soft, gentle kiss and Carmen responded to it. He pulled away after a bit and held her hand.
Carmen had thought, just a few seconds ago, that he was doing it because he felt sorry for her. But she looked into his eyes and she could see it; the feelings she felt for Johnny Taylor were returned.
"I've always loved you." Johnny said softly. "But I was scared and a coward and I'm really sorry."
"Me too." Carmen whispered, and she leaned her head on his shoulder. She certainly wasn't crying any more.
"Will you be my girlfriend, Carmen?" Johnny asked.
It wasn't the more modern way of asking that question. But Carmen didn't mind. She felt it was romantic and sweet.
"Of course I will." She said. "I've waited far too long to let this moment pass me by."