The Night of Firsts
Chapter 1: A Promise of Moonlight The air in Maria’s bedroom was thick with the scent of teenage anticipation and the faint, sweet perfume of vanilla that she always wore. It was a scent Asher had come to associate with her, a comforting aroma that usually made his heart beat a little faster with a simple, uncomplicated affection. Tonight, however, it was mingled with something else—the electric, almost palpable hum of a line about to be crossed. The only light came from a single string of fairy lights draped over her headboard, casting a warm, golden glow that made the room feel like a secret world, separate from the rest of the suburban house and the quiet street outside. Asher sat on the edge of Maria’s bed, his hands clammy, his heart a frantic drum …