If He Had Been with Me, #2
If Only I Had Told Her
by Laura Nowlin
Contents
Finn — Fourteen
Overview
Finn reassures an anxious Autumn and commits to ending things with Sylvie immediately. The Mothers arrive early and witness Finn and Autumn kissing, tacitly signaling approval. Finn and Autumn plan for him to return secretly that night to hold her. Finn departs in the rain, determined yet dreading the breakup ahead.
Summary
Finn returns from the shower to find Autumn fearful about their future. He reassures her that breaking up with Sylvie must happen now so they can be together without secrecy, promising to come back as soon as he can.
Outside by his car under gray clouds and rising wind, Finn holds Autumn as she pleads for him not to go. He proposes a plan: when The Mothers get home, Autumn will go to bed early, and he will sneak in later to hold her through the night. They seal the plan with kisses that grow urgent.
The Mothers arrive home early and see them kissing in the driveway. Embarrassed, Autumn worries about teasing and attention, while Finn notes that their mothers had long hoped for this pairing and will likely be pleased—perhaps even prepared to celebrate.
Finn promises to return and tells Autumn that after this, things will be as they were meant to be. He drives off into the rain, carrying dread for Sylvie’s hurt but firm in his resolve to end that relationship and come back to Autumn.
Who Appears
- FinnDetermined to break up with Sylvie, reassures Autumn, proposes a secret reunion, and leaves in the rain.
- AutumnAnxious about losing Finn, begs him to stay, agrees to the plan, and is seen kissing him by The Mothers.
- Aunt ClaireArrives home early, quietly smiles after catching Finn and Autumn kissing.
- MomFinn’s mother; returns early, likely approving after witnessing the driveway kiss.