Just before you bolt, you see Vin across the street.
"Vin, hi!" you shout. Maybe this is just what I need, you think.
Vin walks across the street to you and says, "Hello again."
"I was just asking Mr. Standish where I might find you," you lie.
"You were?" Vin looks surprised. "Did you wanna see me for somethin'?"
You give Ezra one last glance before walking up to Vin and linking your arm with his. "Since you seem to know so much about this town, I was wondering if you would take me to the local schoolhouse. I just want to see how this town's school looks."
"Sure, come on," Vin says. Vin and you walk down the street, speaking of how long Vin has been in this town and your "upcoming trip to Wilderville." When you reach the schoolhouse, you say, "This is a very nice school."
"Our schoolteacher is plannin' on leavin' sometime next year. It's too bad you ain't staying," Vin says.
"If things don't work out in Wilderville, I may just come back here," you say softly. You find yourself believing this false story of yours, and you start to wish it were true.
"I'd like that," Vin says, his deep blue eyes locked on yours.
Instinctively, you take a step toward Vin and he takes a step toward you. Vin reaches out and places his hand on your neck, drawing you closer to him. Your lips lock with Vin's in a gentle kiss.
You pull away and open your eyes. You're speechless for a moment, but finally say, "Thank you for the...walk, Vin." You turn and walk away, leaving Vin standing there. You begin to wish this guilty feeling would vanish.
*****