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“I’m here, aren’t I? I'm trying.” Being coaxed out of studying so much, spending time with Dane has been slwloy changing my perspective on life. My priorities and how much time I was spending with my head stuck in schoolwork. We’re young, and it won’t last. I have good grades and can afford to relax a little.“What’s his deal anyway? For a guy who has no problems talking to girls at any other time, he seems incapable of being normal around Elisa. It’s painful to watch.”

I turn our focus back to them now they are near the water's edge. Elisa is fidgeting with her nails and kicking one foot in the sand in an obvious girly nervousness. Tyler has both hands in his pockets and seems to be saying something amusing to her because I can hear her small giggles occasionally. She ducks her head, probably blushing, and Tyler follows every time by leaning in and down so he doesn't lose sight of her eyes. It’s cute to watch, but their three-foot gap speaks volumes.

“Boy’s in love….. doesn’t matter h