The world outside was winding down. The street seemed softer, muted by winter the sky turning a deeper gray and the cold biting at any skin left uncovered. Cars slid past; people hustled home, scarves wrapped over mouths and noses, faces hidden. Joe heard the buzz of traffic and felt the crunch of salt under his shoes with every step. He walked close enough to Liam that their coats nearly brushed. The warmth coming off Liam felt startling. “How was your day?” Liam asked, breathing out white in the air. “Fine.” Joe’s voice was rough. “Just fine.” “Just fine?” Liam tried again. “Yeah. It was fine.” Liam nodded, letting the question drop. They didn’t need words for a while. They rounded a corner. Here, the houses leaned in with chipped paint and old mailboxes. Branches tangled overhead; a jay called out sharp and lonely somewhere above. Liam spoke again, hesitantly. “Can I ask you something?” “Yeah.” “Why did you kiss me? At the movie.” Joe’s breath caught. He stared at the cr
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