By Michael Hopkins
FIRST PLACE in the February Competition
Charlotte slipped out through the side door, the music still thudding faintly behind her. Someone inside shouted that it was midnight now, and eighteen balloons bobbed above the conservatory roof, bumping gently against one another.
Anna was already there, standing under the apple tree with her jacket buttoned up. She smiled when she saw Charlotte, the sort of smile that made room for her.
“Escaping?” Charlotte asked.
“Just for a minute.”
They listened while the party sounds drifted and softened. Anna reached into her pocket and took out a packet of cigarettes.
“I’m allowed now,” she said lightly. “You are too.”
Charlotte nodded.
“There’s only one left,” Anna said.
“You have it, then.”
Anna shook her head, lit it anyway, and cupped the flame carefully with both hands before passing it over. Charlotte noticed how thoughtful the movement was, as if this small exchange mattered. She took a cautious drag and coughed. Anna laughed, gently, and took it back.
Charlotte had kissed people before. Boys from school, mostly. It had always felt like something to get right. Standing there now, sharing smoke and quiet, she felt calm, as if she didn’t need to perform or explain herself, as if this wasn’t about being wanted at all.
They talked about small things, and when Charlotte handed the cigarette back, their fingers touched and stayed.
“I don’t want to go back in yet,” Anna said.
“Me neither.”
Anna leaned in slowly, giving Charlotte time. Their kiss was brief and careful, but it settled warmly in Charlotte’s chest, as if something she hadn’t named before had found its place.
Anna smiled. “I’m glad it was you.”
Charlotte was too. They stayed outside until the cigarette burned down, the balloons drifting above them, and eighteen felt like a beginning they could share.
Judge’s Comments: Beautiful writing. I loved this clever story about coming of age and finding out who you are. There are so few words, but so much is said. Well done.
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