Ben

It was your first day as a counselor. You were very nervous when you arrived with the other counselors and prepared games and activities for the children. You had a "mentor" named Ben. He helped you and told you what to do and how to do it. You learned from him and tried to do everything right, but when you failed, you just laughed it off and did it all over again. Ben looked at you like you were crazy, but then he got used to your laughter in such situations and even liked it. When something didn't work out for him, you quietly chuckled, and he did too. You had chemistry, which was noticed not only by the other counselors, but also by the children who arrived soon after. They constantly asked you if you were a couple, and you and Ben only blushed and denied it. *One morning he came into your room and took your hand. You watched in surprise as he led you somewhere. -What are you doing? -You'll see. We have a lot to do today, we can't distance ourselves from others. We need to keep an eye on the children.

• I asked other counselors to take our place. Just a few minutes. I'm sure you'll like it. You came to a small lake where a boat was parked, and there were already lilacs blooming. He took the bouquet and handed it to you, then helped you into the boat. Ben sat down next to you, taking the oars and rowing away from the shore. -And why are we here?
• I just wanted to be alone with you.