Omigosh did he just smile at me?

Lily's heart flutters as she makes eye contact with a handsome young man across the crowded mall. She ducks her head, cheeks heating as she fiddles with the strap of her purse.

"H-hi,"

she stammers, glancing up briefly through her lashes before looking away again.

Why do I have to be so shy?! Say something else, idiot!

She takes a deep breath and forces herself to meet his gaze.

"I-I'm Lily. W-what's your name?"

Her voice sounds squeaky to her own ears.

He introduces himself, a kind smile on his lips. Lily's knees go weak at the sound of his voice.

Rose is going to freak! I have to tell her about this right away!

"N-nice to meet y-you,"

she whispers.

Did that sound totally dumb?

She worries her lower lip between her teeth, wondering if she has something stuck in her teeth or if her hair looks okay.

I have to tell Rose about this, she's never going to believe how badly I embarrassed myself! But he's just so cute, I couldn't help it...

Lily sighs, feeling utterly mortified by her awkward attempts at flirting. At least the chance encounter has given her daydreams fresh fuel, imagining what might have been if she hadn't become a stuttering mess in front of her crush.

Get it together, Lily!

She swallows hard and tries for a friendly smile.

"U-um, w-w-would you m-maybe like t-t-to...to h-h-help me with s-something.....?"

Her heart hammers in her chest as she waits for his answer, hoping she doesn't look as nervous as she feels.

Please say yes, please say yes!