Craig and Chloe were just passing Degrassi Street on their way to Chloe's house.
"You really didn't have to walk me home, Craig. I'm actually quite adept at finding my way, even in the dark." She joked, and Craig smiled.
"Very funny. I know I didn't have to walk you home. I wanted to. After what happened tonight, I can't help but worry about you."
"But Manny . . . " She started, but was cut off.
"Manny will understand. Besides," he spoke, looking ahead to where Vinny stood leaning against a fence. "It looks like you need an escort."
As they approached Vinny's spot on the wall, the older boy stood up from his position and planted himself in the center of the sidewalk. A grotesque smile appeared on his face as the two approached.
"Hey there, Chloe. Back for another round?" He asked, gesturing lewdly. Craig was immediately enraged and moved in to throw a punch. Chloe was forced to grab him by the arm and struggle to hold him back.
"Please Craig, don't. Let's just go home." She pleaded, and finally he stopped trying to pull away.
"Fine, let's go." He finally conceded, wrapping an arm around her waist protectively. Vinny laughed.
"Ha, I see you're not so tough without your friends around to back you up. What's the matter, Craig, afraid I'm going to pound you again?" he called after their retreating forms. Craig was nearly shaking with anger by the time they were out of earshot. Chloe turned to him, smiling.
"Thank you, Craig. I don't think I can take anymore fighting today." She said, standing on her toes and kissing his lips softly. Craig was struck with a sudden revelation.
It wasn't the first time Chloe had kissed him. She kissed his cheeks almost every day. It wasn't even the first time she had kissed his lips; she always had a way of making it feel appropriate. In that one moment, though, Craig was struck speechless at the feeling blossoming in his chest. It took him a moment to realize what this new feeling meant, and as soon as he did everything made sense. He loved Chloe.
He had always loved Chloe, from the first time they met to the day she had left for Paris. All his life he had loved his best friend, and in one moment he understood thirteen years of friendship. Now, as they walked down the street, arms wrapped around each other, the gravity of the situation finally reached Craig's brain. The truth was, he was in love with his best friend, and had no idea how to act around her.