As I near their cul-de-sac I suddenly realise it. It's only going to be Keith and I. Except little Toyah of course (who I bought a present for from a gas station. Babies like rattles, right?) I feel a little fizz in my stomach. Is that a good or a bad thing?
I know that I love him, but I absolutely cannot do anything about it. Keith is my friend and so is Susie. No way. I am just going to be there for him while he is going through a rough time and he can give me a couch to sleep on until I get back on my feet. I don't even know how to go about finding a job. It's been so long.
Right. I am confident. I do not have feelings for the person that I will from now on be staying with indefinitely. I knock the door sharply. I put my hand on my hip. Aloof.
The front door opens and I see that familiar face that I know so well. Except...he is different. His golden locks have gone slightly limp. His jaw is tighter. The circles around the eyes have darkened and his eyes are vacant of their natural glint.
I realise that I've been standing here lapping him in like a simpleton. I drag my brain back into the moment and I open my mouth to give a nonchalant greeting, however I'm slightly taken aback when he simply holds his finger to his lips. Does he want me to kiss him? Okay. That's fine. I can do this. I move into him and place on hand on his shoulder, close my eyes and gently place my lips to his, lingering for just a second.
He smells wonderful and he tastes even better. I could stand here forever. I pull away after a second and gaze up into his dark, vulnerable eyes.
"Hi Keith."