Middle Grade Crushes

Just as in real life, fictional characters are motivated by many outside obstacles or tension. The ex-boyfriend moving back to town, a sudden storm that knocks out power during the school play, or even friction between a parental figure and a teen. But there are also inner motivations like beliefs, morals, and preferences. 
And the greatest of these is Love. (1 Corinthians 13:13)

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Unicorn Bell, in honor of the fast approaching Valentine's Day, is asking for some love highlights, today. Be it ooey-gooey, romantic love or the mesmerizing affection a character has over a chocolate bar. 
I've chosen a few lines from my current middle grade manuscript to spotlight a different love motivator. 
Meet Ebony Jade Charmed - twelve year old cheese lover slash spirit-tracker and her encounter with that uncomfortable yet exciting first tug at her heart strings.

Ebony gathered her things and pivoted to step in the opposite direction, but slammed into something hard. Her satchel rammed up under her chin and tipped her head back. To her shock, she found herself staring into the face of a boy, who looked familiar but, at the same time didn't. 
“Uh …” The alphabet had never failed her before. “Oh gosh, I’m …” 
Tall, with wavy chestnut hair tapping his earlobes, mystery boy’s skin glowed tan as though kissed from sunlight. The back of his hair brushed his neck and curled up at the ends. His bangs hovered just above his eyes like some dream guy from an old beach movie she'd watched with her mother. It was his eyes of ice and fire that got to her. Oddly enough, they reminded her of a cool bowl of double chocolate ice cream and spicy buffalo chicken wings at the same time. He offered her satchel, and she accepted it.
Without another word, he dipped his chin in a simple nod and then sauntered toward the school. 
“Wait!” She mentally did a face plant on an invisible desk, wondering why she couldn't stop her mouth from blurting out. 

Do you remember that initial boy/girl who tugged at your heart and made you question yourself?