Kiry found the strangest sight awaiting her at her locker the next day at school: Jai's best friend Christopher was standing there, apparently waiting for her because he straightened up and smiled when she saw him.

"Hey, Kiersten." Christopher said, green cat eyes sparkling madly. "What's up?"

"You're at my locker, you tell me," she said.

"Trying to imitate my great sense of humor?" He grinned at her.

"No," she said. "I have to go."

"Wait!" He held his hands out in front of him as if to stop her. "I have something to ask you."

"Shoot."

"You don't have a boyfriend do you?" he asked.

Kiry's mind began to race. Was he trying to find out for Jai? They were best friends after all.

"Not at the moment," she answered calmly, not wanting to give away her excitement.

"Then would you consider going out with me sometime?" He spoke casually, like he was asking her favorite color, but Kiry could see the fierce seriousness burning in the cool green emeralds.

Kiry had always had problems saying no to people which is why she accepted the presidency – class presidency, that is – the lead role in the eleventh grade winter production of The Phantom of the Opera, and had joined the even committee in charge of school dances, meetings, and assemblies.

That's why Kiry agreed, even though she knew she's regret it later

*****

"Dear Jai,

The weirdest thing happened to me today,

and I'm not exactly sure why I'm telling you

of all people but it's easier somehow because

you don't know who I am, but I was asked

out for the first time in my life. You know,

since I started liking you, I thought my first

date would be with you but I guess that's not

going to happen now. I'd be glad to make my

second date with you though, that wouldn't

be a problem at all. Well, I guess that's long

enough, so until next time –

Love,

Your Secret Admirer"