After completing her class, Grace headed straight home without stopping at her mother's shop, despite her earlier plan to do so that morning.Upon arriving home, Grace set down her bag and decided to take a nap. It was the ringing of her phone that eventually woke her. Upon checking the caller ID, her eyes widened in surprise-it was Nathan, the person she had exchanged numbers with the previous night during their chat.With a nervous hand, she deliberated over whether to answer the call, ultimately realizing she had little choice but to do so."Hello," she greeted."Angel, how are you?""I'm fine, and you?" she asked, blushing at the endearment."I'm clearly fine. I'm so happy to see you this morning, but didn't you return my greeting?"Grace was silent, her face flushed with embarrassment."I understand. You must be surprised to see me today. Do you recognize me?""Well, yes, but I don't recall meeting you before.""Sure, as I've mentioned before, you may not know me, but I've known you for a long time. Anyway, how was your day?""It was fine, a little bit stressful.""I can sense that from your voice. Have I ever told you that you have a cool and pleasant voice?"No.""Your voice is the most angelic one I've ever heard in my life. It's quite melodious."Grace blushed, stifling a laugh with clothes in her mouth. "Thanks."The conversation continued with both of them laughing and chatting about irrelevant things, their bond growing stronger with each passing moment as if they had known each other for a long time.********Over the weekend, Grace and Sarah visited the amusement park, thoroughly enjoying themselves. They later relaxed on a swing, both seated and enjoying their ice cream."Oh girl, how's it going with your handsome dude?" Sarah asked, focusing her attention on Grace."He's doing well," Grace replied."Are you still chatting with him?""Yes, he doesn't seem to have any bad intentions.""Wow, have you fallen for his charm already?""No, we're just friends.""I don't trust that guy at all," Sarah said with a note of distrust in her voice. Grace hesitated to mention that she had met him once, knowing Sarah's dislike for him."******AFTER A YEARThe bond between Grace and Nathan grew stronger with each passing day. They spoke on the phone at every opportunity, exchanged video calls and texts regularly. Their communication was constant; they couldn't go long without messaging each other. They found a true friend in one another.Meanwhile, Grace hesitated to confide in Sarah about her ongoing conversations with Nathan. Sarah, on the other hand, seemed to have moved on and forgotten about him.With only two months until the SAT exam, Grace continued to excel as the top student in her tutorial class. Her bond with Nathan remained unwavering. One day, Grace decided to visit Nathan at the mechanic shop where he apprenticed. He had been hesitant, fearing she might judge him or end their friendship upon seeing him in work clothes stained with grease and dirt. To his surprise, Grace was impressed; she found him charming and still looked handsome in his mechanic outfit. It was hard to believe he was an apprentice mechanic. Since then, Grace has been visiting Nathan's workshop occasionally. Everyone, including the boss, welcomed her warmly and treated her with friendliness.Today, Nathan is coming over to Grace's house with his books. During their conversations, she discovered that he is also preparing for the SAT exam but lacks time for tutorials due to his work schedule. Grace generously offered to assist him with his studies, a gesture she hadn't extended to her best friend, Sarah.Grace meticulously cleaned the house, scrubbing the floors and spraying perfume throughout, all in anticipation of Nathan's visit. It was his first time coming over, and she was determined to make a positive impression on him.The knock on the door interrupted Grace mid-spray of her perfume. She was dressed in a floral-print skirt that fell just below her knees and a form-fitting top. Hurrying to the door, she grasped the doorknob, took a deep breath, and exhaled slowly before opening it. There he stood, in casual jeans and a T-shirt, Some books in his hand, a broad smile lighting up his face. They embraced warmly before Grace stepped back to allow him to enter."Sorry, my house is a bit small," Grace remarked, her fingers toying with her nails as she observed Nathan calmly taking his seat. He simply smiled in response.Grace shifted to sit beside him as Nathan placed his books on the table and looked up at her."Would it be more convenient if we sit side by side while you teach me?" Nathan suggested. Grace acquiesced, moving to his side and taking a seat next to him. They opened their books and began asking each other questions to clarify their understanding.The lesson was progressing smoothly until Nathan posed a question to Grace that she wasn't familiar with, causing her to falter. She faced Nathan, who had been observing her intently with a look that seemed almost predatory. The sudden realization that they were alone in the room made the atmosphere tense, neither of them able to break eye contact. Grace felt a shiver run down her spine as she studied Nathan's features up close, noticing details she had never seen before. For over a year, they had maintained a distance, never finding themselves alone together in a room until now. Nathan's face revealed a chiseled jawline, well-defined cheekbones, and a straight nose that enhanced his overall facial structure. His eyes were captivating, exuding clarity and confidence, framed by long eyelashes that added to their expressiveness. His skin was smooth and clear, suggesting meticulous skincare and grooming habits. Simultaneously, Nathan had the opportunity to observe Grace up close. Her complexion was smooth and radiant, reflecting her good health and skincare regimen. Her eyes were framed by long lashes and defined brows, conveying warmth, depth, and emotion. Her lips were soft and well-shaped, with a natural hue that drew attention, especially when she smiled gently. Her natural hair framed her face elegantly, completing her overall appearance. In that silent moment of mutual observation, each became acutely aware of the other's presence and features, a new layer of understanding and intrigue unfolding between them.Nathan's face moved closer to hers, and Grace's breath quickened with curiosity. She had never been this close to a man before. The feeling was strange yet exciting. When Nathan's soft lips touched hers, she was startled.Nathan continued to kiss her, convinced he had found a girl who tasted like vanilla. It was clear that this was her first time, as she seemed unsure of how to respond. He gently bit her lip, gaining entrance to her mouth, and explored it with his tongue. He continued kissing her till she was out of breath and she pulled away, Her face flushed with embarrassment, unsure how to face him after what had transpired between them.Nathan knows she will be shy to face him. He softly placed his hand on her exposed and nude body, and she flinched. His hand moved up to her jaw, lifting her face gently to meet with his."Look at me" He commanded, and Grace obeyed him. "Why are you so shy? We did nothing wrong, sweetheart; it is common for teenagers to kiss, kissing is a natural thing nowadays, okay?"She raised her head. "It is not good, We are still young for this, It might lead to something else next time""NO, it will lead to nothing; I have everything under control, okay?" "So trust me," Nathan replied before recapturing her lips. Nathan's urge began to become stronger. Nathan caressed her lap, moving his hand under her skirt, brushing against her pant, it was only the layer of the pant that was preventing him from touching her pussy.Grace swiftly pushed him away as she felt he was attempting to shift aside her pant. Her face was disguised as she stood up and pointed to the door."Please be going home"
"Why?"
"Because i don't want to ever see you again"
"Because of what?" He questioned, toying with her emotions. "Because I kissed you"
"Yes, that is enough for me to hate you""Okay, I will be going home. I'll give you a call tonight; please pick up," he said, giving her a peck on the cheek before leaving. Grace sank down on the chair, swearing she had almost lost her virginity to him. She knew she was on a path of destruction with Nathan, who lacked self-control. She needed to be very careful with him.******A few days later, Grace sat in her class, lost in thought and oblivious to her surroundings. She thought of Nathan constantly. She remembered blocking his number that very day, yet she couldn't shake the memory of his touch from her mind. Though she longed to feel that touch again, she was determined to keep her vow to remain a virgin until marriage. She resolved that she would not let Nathan break that vow-neverGrace finished the class activity, her mind still occupied with thoughts of Nathan. As she packed up her things, she tried to shake off the distraction, focusing instead on her next task. She headed to her mom's shop, a small boutique that sold handmade crafts and vintage items. When Grace arrived at the shop, her mom was busy organizing a display. Grace greeted her with a warm smile, and her mom looked up, returning the smile with equal warmth."How was class, dear?" her mom asked, her voice filled with genuine interest."It was fine, just a bit distracting," Grace replied, trying to keep her tone light. "I'm ready to head home whenever you are."With the shop closed and everything in order, Grace and her mom walked to the bus stop together. They waited for the bus, chatting about their day and the little things that made life enjoyable. As they stood waiting, Grace noticed Nathan approaching from a distance. Her heart skipped a beat, but she tried to stay composed. She couldn't recall the exact details, but she had introduced Nathan to her mother after a few months of their friendship. Her mother had accepted their friendship positively.Nathan reached the bus stop and greeted them with a casual wave. "Hey, Grace. Hi, Mrs. Linda," he said, his tone friendly."Hello, Nathan," Grace's mom responded with a polite smile. "What brings you here?"Nathan shrugged, trying to appear casual. "Just thought I'd catch up with Grace. I didn't expect to see you both here."Grace's mom, always friendly and open, invited Nathan to join them in conversation."Why don't you wait with us? We're just chatting while we wait for the bus."Nathan agreed and joined them. He began to engage in conversation with Grace's mom, discussing a local event and sharing light-hearted anecdotes. Grace, though internally conflicted, tried to stay engaged in the conversation. She could see Nathan's charm at work, as he effortlessly made small talk and seemed genuinely interested in what her mom had to say.Despite the friendly exchange, Grace felt a mix of frustration and resolve. Nathan's presence was a reminder of the temptation she was determined to resist. As the bus approached, Grace's mom thanked Nathan for the conversation and they all boarded together.As they settled into their seats, Grace's mom chatted with Nathan about local news and events, while Grace stared out the window, lost in thought. She was grateful for her mother's presence and support, but she knew she had to stay strong in her commitment. Nathan's attempts to reconnect were clear, but Grace was resolved not to let him sway her from her vow.When they finally reached home, Grace felt a sense of relief. She knew she had to remain firm in her values, and while Nathan's charm was difficult to ignore, her commitment to her principles was unwavering.*****Upon returning home, Grace was met with a concerned look from her mother. "I noticed you seemed distant with Nathan the other day," her mother remarked gently. "Is there something you'd like to talk about?"Grace sighed, unsure of how to explain her internal struggle."I've just been feeling conflicted about our friendship," she admitted. "Nathan and I have had our share of issues."Her mother nodded, understanding. "I just want to make sure you're okay and that you're being honest about your feelings."As they spoke, Grace's mother's phone rang. It was Nathan calling. Her mother glanced at Grace and then answered the call. "It's Nathan," she said, handing the phone to her daughter.Grace took the phone, her heart racing. "Hello, Nathan?""Hi, Grace," Nathan's voice came through, sounding earnest. "I wanted to apologize for how things went the other day. I realize I've made mistakes, and I want to be a better person. I'm truly sorry for any distress I've caused."Grace listened carefully, feeling a mix of relief and skepticism. "I appreciate your apology, Nathan," she said. "I've been thinking a lot about us. It's important to me that we both move forward positively."Nathan's response was sincere. "I understand, Grace. I promise to make better choices and be a more supportive friend. I value our friendship and want to show you that I've changed."After their conversation, Grace felt reassured by Nathan's words. She decided to give their friendship another chance, believing that he was genuinely committed to improving himself. They continued their friendship with renewed understanding and respect, working together to build a stronger, more supportive connection.