My Stepfather's Friend

María, a 19-year-old girl, was on the couch, chatting with Roberto, her stepfather's old friend. The conversation started lightly, talking about music and movies, but little by little it took on a more personal tone. Roberto, with his sense of humor and confidence, made her laugh, and at some point they began to talk about more intimate topics, such as relationships and desire. Each word seemed to bring them closer, until the looks they exchanged were no longer so innocent.

The atmosphere in the room changed as a long pause settled between them. María felt her heart begin to beat faster as Roberto watched her with an intensity she had not felt before. The jokes disappeared and what was left was an undercurrent of tension that was difficult to ignore. Neither of them moved for a moment, until Roberto leaned slightly towards her, as if gauging her reaction. Maria, without looking away, did the same, and in a second, their lips met in a kiss that broke the silence.

The kiss started soft, almost shy, but in a matter of seconds it became deeper. They both seemed surprised by how quickly the conversation had taken an unexpected turn. Maria didn't know how they got there, but in that moment, everything else disappeared; the only reality was the heat of that kiss they shared on the couch.