You meet with Maya

To pass some time, I call my girlfriend. We talk casually about our day, and hearing her voice makes me feel grounded. As I reach the library entrance, I spot Maya sitting at a table near the windows, already unpacking her books.

For some reason, I hesitate. I glance at Maya, then back at my phone. There’s nothing wrong with studying with a classmate, but I suddenly feel uncomfortable about the fact that I’m already thinking about how to explain it. I lower my voice slightly.

“Hey, I’m actually at the library now,” I say. “I’m going to get some studying done, so maybe I’ll call you later tonight?”

“Okay. Love you.”

“Love you too.”

I hang up and stare at my phone for a second longer than I should. A small wave of guilt hits me. Why am I acting like I have something to hide? I haven’t done anything wrong. Maya is just a classmate. Still, I feel like I’m already creating a secret where there doesn’t need to be one.

I put my phone away and walk toward Maya, forcing myself to relax. It’s just studying. That’s all it is.