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“Damn, babe,” Ellie’s eyes sparkled in the dim glow from the bedroom window, “that was smooth.”

“Just have to make sure you know how much I love you and how much you mean to me.”

“I do know.”

“Good.”

“Sadie?”

“Hmm?”

“You changed my summer and life, too.” Ellie smirked. “I could so make aWickedreference right now.”

“You’resucha theater kid.”

“Yeah, but you love me.”

“I do.”

They kissed again, this time with their hands going into each other’s hair. Having never really kissed anyone before, Sadie was glad she could learn with Ellie. Learning what Ellie liked, what she responded to, had been part of the fun of being with Ellie. She learned something new about her every day it seemed, and Sadie loved that.

“I really hate to say this…”

“Then don’t.” Sadie pressed her forehead against Ellie’s. “Because I know you need to leave because I know I need to get some sleep before tomorrow. But I’m not ready to say goodbye.”

“It’s just a see you later, not a goodbye.” Tenderly, Ellie tucked Sadie’s hair behind her ear as she framed her cheeks with her hands. “I’m so proud of you, Sadie. I can’t wait to see everything you’re going to accomplish at UT. I love you.”

“I love you, too, Ellie. And I can’t wait to see what you do. It’s gonna be so fun to watch.”

“And the best part?”

“What’s that?”

“We’ll get to love and support each other through it all. No matter what.”

“No matter what.”

Sadie kissed Ellie again until, reluctantly, she let Ellie lead her into the bedroom window and down the stairs. There was no point in holding back the tears; the floodgates had burst open for both of them. She held tight onto Ellie as they each hurried their heads in the other’s shoulder.

“I’m going to miss you so much.”

“We’re going to text and FaceTime all the time.” Ellie pulled herself out of Sadie’s embrace slightly. “I love you, Sadie.”

“I love you too, Ellie.”

“Learn a lot of stuff.”

“I will,” Sadie giggled.

“And don’t forget me.”

“I couldn’t if I tried.”

“Good,” Ellie smiled. They kissed once more before Ellie opened the door to leave.

“I’ll walk you to your car.”

“No.”