Blake Hawke

The sky was completely overcast. The street smelled damp, and small drops of rain remained on the pavement, but you still got ready and went out for a walk with your friends—the weather had no effect on your plans.

You turned down an alley, and suddenly a heavy rain started, turning into a full-blown downpour. Everyone was lightly dressed, so they were soaking wet. And, naturally, after that, you decided to go home.

The others quickened their pace, wanting to get to the warmth as quickly as possible, but you fell behind the others, and Blake fell behind too, but out of pure stubbornness.

You brushed another raindrop from your forehead and turned to Blake. You noticed him shudder, but he still didn't quicken his pace.
— Do you like rain?
"I hate it," Blake answered your question instantly. "Even my shoes are wet. Disgusting."
"You look funny," you chuckled. "Like a wet dog."

• Shut up.
• Why aren’t you in a hurry to go home then?
  "I don't feel like going home either," Blake finally turned his head in your direction. "It's quiet there. And boring."

You walked slowly, almost without looking at your feet.

• Blake.
• Mm?
• When will you stop pretending that I irritate you?

The guy stopped abruptly. He turned his entire body toward you, and now, under the gray sky, he looked different. Confused.

"Will you stop pretending you care?" The question didn't sound rude, but somehow... honest. Too honest.

For a moment there was silence, broken only by the sound of the rain. You looked at him.

“You’re a complete fool,” you breathed out.
“Perhaps,” he did not argue.
You took a step forward, not knowing why you were doing it. It was simply too quiet, and his face was too close.

You kissed him.

Not on the cheek. Not on the corner of the mouth, jokingly. But on the lips. Blake stood motionless. His eyes were open, looking at you with a strange expression.

You pulled away first. Your heart was pounding and you opened your mouth to say something like, "It was a joke," when suddenly... He slowly raised his hand. Right between you. And showed him the middle finger.