Michael leans even closer to answer. His breath tickles my ear. “I’ve been coming here for the pianist. We’re considering recruiting him to the school where I work.” His nose is so close that it brushes against my cheek. But I don’t respond to the physical touch because I’m confused by what he’s said.

Recruiting for a school? It’s too much of a coincidence.

But also, if he’s not a college student, how old is this guy?

I’d assumed around nineteen. The fact that he was clearly older than me had felt exciting, but how much older is he actually? I try not to stare as I reassess. Full head of dark hair. Crinkles around his eyes, but only because he’s smiling. There’s certainly a maturity about him that I hadn’t noted before. Suddenly, he seems kind of ageless, and I feel panicky. How old does he think I am? Will it matter? I really don’t want to ruin this.

“So, you’re a teacher?” I ask.

“I guess you could call it that. What do you do? I’m guessing you’re still in school.” His smile is wide, and by the way he says “school,” I know he means college and that he’s not going to be comfortable when he realizes I’m only a senior in high school.

“Um… yeah, still in school. I’m on winter break,” I respond.

“What are you studying? Wait, let me guess… art history?” Still with that smile and those oh-so-playful dimples. I really don’t want to, but I know I need to tell him.

“Actually, um, Michael, I’m still in high school.”

His thigh that is pressed against mine tenses. His eyes widen, and he assesses my appearance much like I did his a moment before.

“How old are you?”

“Almost eighteen.” Depending on what constitutes as “almost.”

“Oh.” He sits up straight, shifting over so none of his body is in contact with mine. I feel cold air replace his warmth. “I should’ve… I just assumed… I mean, a smart, beautiful—uh, traveling on your own…”

The bench is small, and we’re still very close, and the music is loud, and it’s just too much for me. I stand, my napkin fluttering to the floor. “Maybe let’s go outside and get some air?”