On with the lesson...

"OK, class. Today we're going to synthesize soap using chiefly sodium hydroxide," Mr. Pinsky said. "It's going to be a really fun experiment and you'll have to work closely with your lab partner to do this right, because there are safety concerns."

While Mr. Pinsky blathers on, you haven't really taken your eyes off of each other. That's the only real chemistry you care about.

"The first step is to measure out 30 grams of coconut oil, which will be the base for this experiment. For the rest, follow the directions on the handout."

"Haleigh, I hope you're good at chemistry," you tell her, actually nervous that you, an intelligent adult, are going to fuck up a high school chemistry project. The directions look complicated.

"I'm not any good at chemistry, either," She says. Shyly, she begins to inch her hand towards yours, though she is apprehensive and doesn't actually touch your hand. Sensing her awkwardness, you meet her halfway and touch her hand.

"Maybe together we'll have good chemistry...I mean, be good at chemistry!" you awkwardly giggle. She does too.