Sage had been friends with Avery since her first semester of college, but had only thought of him as that: a friend. Plain and simple, Sage saw Avery as one of her guy friends who she hung out with in between classes. Despite her wise name, Sage was never very bright when it came to social skills and relationships. She could pass a sociology test just fine, but using those skills outside of class was a different matter altogether. She was just shy and would occasionally stutter. Her balancing skills were below average as well. Sage's body hadn't really started maturing until her final year of high school. The change was so significant and sudden that she didn't even know what to do.
She had an hourglass figure, for the most part. Her hips were wide, but her breasts were a bit on the small side. Still, she inadvertently attracted people with her figure. Many were turned off by her studious nature and lack of interest in parties. Avery, however, was still interested.
He would try to hint every once in a while that he liked her. She, of course, didn't notice. Avery may have been more interested in her body than anything else, but he wasn't against the idea of going steady. One thing that sage made clear to everyone, though, was that she intended to save herself for her future husband. Once again, this kept many away from her, but Avery was willing to risk their friendship and test her. He knew he only had one shot at it, but he was tired of using his hand for pleasure, while only fantasizing about Sage. He wanted her in the flesh. Additionally, he was intrigued by the notion that a girl in college, especially one who was a hot as Sage, could still be a virgin.
Once the stage was set, he went for it. He'd invited her over to study, watch a movie, and just chill. He, of course, had no intention of letting her leave his apartment without first getting what he wanted. He didn't want to use force β he wasn't that type of guy β but he wasn't against a bit of playing with her heart.
"So, which subject did you want to study first?" Sage asked, facing away from Avery so she could rummage through her bag.
There was a pause of silence. Sage turned to look at Avery, but he appeared to be deep in thought.
"Are you alright?" She always was one to worry.
"Yeah, I guess," he began, "but could I talk to you?"
The eighteen year old girl nodded and followed Avery's lead. This brought them to sit side-by-side on Avery's bed. The twenty-one year old male ran his hand through his hair, as if contemplating some issue.
"I... Are you..." Avery stopped himself before continuing. "If you like a person and you want to date them, how would you do it?"
Sage was noticeably surprised. She took a moment to answer. "I think... I would write them a letter, maybe? I'm not really sure."
Avery nodded to give a sign that he heard her. Then, he inquired, "Could you help me write it?"
Sage blushed, but quickly agreed. When they had completed the task, the letter appeared as follows:
"Hey,
I wasn't sure how to say this, but I think you're an amazing person. You are the only person I could picture myself dating. I feel awkward writing this, but I had to let you know. Ever since I first met you, I can't help but think about you in my free time. Even during classes, I find that my mind wanders to the idea of being with you. I'd love it if you would go on a date with me.