Pires and Anna were dating now. They saw each other every day at school. They ate lunch together. Pires felt happy. He felt like a normal guy.
But Brain had new plans.
You two are moving too slow, Brain told Pires.
What do you mean? Pires asked.
You need to kiss her, Brain said. A real kiss. Not just a hug.
The idea made Pires nervous. What if I do it wrong?
Just pick a good moment, Brain said. Do it when you are saying goodnight. It will be romantic.
On Friday, Pires walked Anna home after pizza with friends. The night was dark and quiet. Pires felt his heart beating fast.
They stopped at her front door. The porch light was on.
I had fun tonight, Anna said.
Me too, Pires said.
He remembered Brain's words. This was the moment. He felt scared but he leaned in. He kissed her. It was a short kiss. Just a few seconds.
When he pulled back, Anna looked surprised. Then she smiled.
Goodnight, Pires, she said softly. She went inside.
Pires walked away fast. He called Brain on his phone.
I did it! he said. I kissed her
Good job! Brain said. I knew you could do it.
Pires felt like he won a big game. He was not the shy boy anymore. He was a boy who could kiss a girl.
He did not think about if Anna liked the kiss. He only thought about his success. Brain's lessons were working. Pires was changing. The new Pires was brave. But the new Pires was also careless.