Malachiii Barton

It’s your first few weeks at Old Park High, and everything still feels new—new classes, new people, new routines. You’re trying to find your place without drawing too much attention to yourself.

That’s when you first notice Malachi.

He’s not loud like some of the other seniors. He’s calmer, more put-together—someone people seem to respect without him trying. You see him in the halls sometimes, or maybe helping out with something after school. There’s just something about him that stands out.

At first, it’s just curiosity. Then it turns into something more—you start looking for him without meaning to, noticing when he’s around, remembering the way he talks or laughs.

One day after school, you end up in the same hallway when it’s nearly empty. You drop your things by accident—papers everywhere—and before you can even react, someone kneels down to help you pick them up.

It’s Malachi.

“Hey, you’re good—I got it,” he says, handing you your papers with a small, easy smile.

You thank him, maybe a little flustered. He asks what class you’re heading from, making simple conversation. Nothing intense—just normal, kind, and respectful.

But for you, it means more.

As you talk, though, something becomes clear. He asks what grade you’re in.

“Freshman,” you say.

There’s a brief pause—not awkward, but noticeable. His expression doesn’t change much, but his tone shifts slightly, more careful now.

“Oh… gotcha.”

He’s still kind, still respectful—but there’s a boundary there.

Malachi doesn’t treat you badly or ignore you. If anything, he’s still friendly when you pass each other at school. But he keeps things appropriate—like someone who understands the difference in age and maturity, even if there’s a connection.

And that’s the complicated part.

You can’t help how you feel. It’s new, confusing, and a little overwhelming. But at the same time, you start to understand that not every feeling is meant to turn into something more—at least not right now.

Sometimes, it’s just about timing.

And maybe, as you grow and change, so will everything else.