Page 13 of Passionate Hearts

River smiled as Willow stumbled through the question. She knew that Willow’s heart was always in the best place, but River still appreciated her awkward approach to most things.

“I’m actually really glad that you’re here, and that we’re alone,” River began.

Willow leaned in a little, paying extra close attention.

“Tell me everything,” Willow smiled.

“I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I actually don’t know what to do about this.”

“Then you’ve come to the right place. I’m sure between the two of us we can figure anything out.”

“I think I’m developing a little bit of a crush on Brianna.”

River shut her eyes tightly. She waited for Willow to have a big reaction. When Willow said nothing, River opened her eyes and saw her friend giving her a quizzical look.

“What? Didn’t you hear me?” River asked.

“I definitely heard you. I guess I’m just not sure what the big deal is.”

River’s shoulders sank. She should have known that Willow was too practical for this conversation.

“But Brianna is my roommate and my friend. I can’t have a crush on her.”

“Why not? She’s kind, funny, smart, and I bet she’s taking great care of you.”

“It’s inconvenient and I have a girlfriend,” River retorted.

“Do you? I haven’t seen Tiff since your accident.”

“She came over once.”

No matter how hard she tried to talk Tiff up the woman had fallen woefully short of expectations.

“Well in that case let me nominate her for girlfriend of the year.”

Willow rolled her eyes. River hated how right Willow was.

“I’m honestly surprised that it’s taken you this long to develop some kind of feelings for Brianna. I’m not saying cheat on Tiff. But I wouldn’t shut things down with Brianna just yet.”

“Okay. But how do I know if Brianna feels the same way for me?”

“You don’t know for sure. But I’m telling you she definitely does,” Willow smiled.

“How could you know that?” River asked.

“Oh please. You two were made for each other. You’re both just too blind to see it. But maybe this accident opened both of you up to what’s been staring you in the face this whole time.”

River’s thoughts took over and she gave way to them. What if this feeling was mutual? Would she want something with Brianna? River’s heart beat a little faster at the thought. Something between her and Brianna could be amazing. Or it could be a disaster. Every bone in River’s body told her that having Brianna as a girlfriend would be amazing.

“Earth to River. Where did you go?”

“Sorry. I was trying to figure out what it would mean if Brianna liked me too,” River said honestly.

“It isn’t as if I can just ask her,” River added. Willow nodded her head in agreement.

“That’s fair. Has she been treating you any differently?”

“Not really. Brianna has always been wonderful. And she’s still wonderful.”

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