Logan [ Looks around. ] is not here.

[ She gives a sheepish smile. ]

Do we have to take about the word salad I spat out? We could talk about Quidditch or how you're doing? How are you doing?

Good, because then you'd be cooing at him instead of talking to me.

[She says it flatly, sitting had on the window bench.] I'm fine. Now, you need to come sit your tush right here next to me and talk to me. We're not leaving 'til you do.

Uh-uh, not doing this. You like Farkle. It's not that big a deal, most of expected it. Why is it upsetting you so much?

I don't. I can't.

Why is that? C'mon it's just Farkle. You two are more together than we are half the time.

I can't like him. I just can't Maya.

That's not an answer, honey.

He's my best friend, peaches. If I try to be more I'm putting everything on the line.

I just don't think I can take it if I lose him.

It's Farkle. You know, little bird who flies around saying he loves us both equally? That's not going to happen.

[ Chews on the inside of her cheek. ]

I know. He loves both of us equally. I just-I just-

[ A deep breath. ]

Want him to love me a bit differently.

[She sighs blowing at a strand of hair.]

Know what you do about that?

What?

Anything. Something. Don't think for a minute. [She glances at her friend taking her hand.] Look, Riles. You won't know what'll happen if you don't try. And you'll feel even worse if you keep looking at him that. It's Farkle. What do you expect him to do? Go all Dracula on you and suck your blood for asking? I can guarantee that kid don't have it in him. He loves you, too.

I'm just not ready.

[ She still liked Lucas, right? ]

Peaches, I'm scared.

Of what? Of you... possibly still liking Lucas, too?

I know feelings are still there for Lucas but I'm more scared of my feelings for Farkle.

Because you like Farkle more than Lucas.

I forgot you can read my mind.

So can he. [She shrugs.] I don't know, Riles. You have to figure out something. Like, I get it their both our friends but this is--- a mess. And ya gotta do something.

Can't I just steal Fluffy and hide under my covers with carrots until I graduate?

I think he'd notice if you kept his cat, Rileys. Besides, you're still on a no pet policy.

Fluffy loves me and no policy will keep us apart! I'm basically her mother. Would you really separate a mother from her young?

Yeaaah. 'Cause I'm sure your dad would eventually notice both of us are gone.

I will go back if you promise to say nothing to Farkle.

[ Gosh, a couple dozen Mars bars sounds good right about now. ]