Maria yawned and stretched her sore arms, then suddenly she sat upright in panic. She didn't remember anything after leaving school...she didn't know where she was, or how she had gotten here! She ran to the window, and was still struggling to open it when she heard soft footsteps behind her.

"That thing's been stuck for years. Don't bother."

Without even turning around, Maria knew instantly who the voice had come from. She heard that voice in her dreams...

"Michael," she whispered. Nothing more, nothing less. Just his name, but even that gave away her every emotion to him. Slowly she turned around, willing herself to avoid his gaze.

"You passed out...I rescued you," he said, with a smug smile on his face.

"Well thank you, but I should go, I can't stay here, school, band practice, I just-"

"Shhh, just lie back, everything's under control." He placed a finger over her lips and kissed her forehead gently. He continued to place soft kisses on her face, making his way towards her lips. Before he could get there however, she shoved him back and crossed her arms defensively.

"You can't do this Michael. You can't tell me that we can't be together, and then just come back whenever it's convenient for you. I love you, but God help me I won't let you break my heart again."

"Wait Maria...please just let me-"

"Don't say anything. I'm leaving now, Michael, and I want you to stay away from me. If being with you hurts this much, then I just don't think it's worth it anymore." And then she turned and fled from his apartment before he could see the tears begin to stain her cheeks.