Gaze Quote by Kimberly Derting
““What are you thinking about?” Jay asked as he plopped down next to her. She blinked, wondering if she was wearing her frustration on her face. “Nothing,” she lied, pushing her salad around her plate. She wasn’t sure why she didn’t just tell him. “Doesn’t look like nothing,” Jules interrupted from across the table. Violet cast a quick glare at her friend for inconveniently pointing out the obvious. “ What? ” Jay asked, nudging Violet with his shoulder. “Tell me.” Violet hesitated, suddenly embarrassed over her new insecurity. Yet, inside her head, she bitterly referred to Mike as “Jay’s boyfriend.” Ironically, though, it was Mike who saved Violet from having to confess those very thoughts, when he slid into an open space on the other side of the table. “What’d I miss?” His lazy smile reached all the way into his tawny-colored eyes, and even the dimples on his cheek made a fleeting appearance. Violet could see the draw for Chelsea; he was sort of stunning to look at. So then what was Jay’s excuse? She jokingly hoped it wasn’t the adorable dimple too.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Unnamed contemporary fiction, 2020
A character hides true feelings, fearing judgment, while friends unintentionally expose the inner turmoil.
In simple terms: She pretends nothing is wrong, but others see through the façade.
Key Takeaway
A honest feelings and seek supportive listeners.
Themes
communication
honesty
insecurity
friendship
misunderstanding
Mood
anxious
reflective
hopeful
Type
dialogue
conversational
dramatic
When to use this quote
- dinner conversation
- confession
- friend group dynamics
- relationship tension
Key Concepts
self‑deception
social perception
emotional masking
Questions to Reflect On
- What are you avoiding saying?
- How could you express discomfort without embarrassment?
A Different Perspective
Friends may misinterpret silence, leading to deeper misunderstandings.
