I’m quiet on the train ride back.
Unusual for me.
Joel heads off to find a vending machine, leaving Christa to slide into the seat in front of me. I keep my gaze on the passing scenery, the blur of countryside melting into city.
"You’re bummed out, huh?" she says, studying me.
"Accurate," I reply, forcing a small smile as I finally look at her.
She leans forward, her voice softer now.
"I know it’s weird."
I exhale, rubbing my temple.
"Christa," I say, leaning in, "Finn hasn’t actually said anything to me about-"
"-Hhe wouldn’t," she cuts in, "he’s very guarded. You know this. But just trust me."
I hesitate before voicing the thought weighing heaviest on my mind.
"Do you really think he would… ask me out on a date?" I shake my head, sighing, “I feel like I somehow ruined Joel’s b
