One, when it was least expected. A secret between friends, never much minded-- though impulsive, and confusing. A new place found to lay hands upon hands, instead of only in the crisp pages of books. Two forms, instead of one, nestled among the shelves like the neatly printed typeset of the words their books contain.
Two, after given much thought. Much thought was sleepless nights staring at cracks in the expanse of white plaster above one’s bed. Much thought was the wandering mind, seemingly always returning to the same memory. The memory of racing hearts and flushed cheeks, and an action almost thought of as a mistake-- but a mistake relived, for selfish reasons.
Three, a kiss in the dark. No mind paid to terrible movies paid for, but never truly watched; attention only on the feeling of fingers entwined, of muffled laughter and the spark between lips that brush in the dark. Hands in pockets, only shoulders touching; who would ever know?
Four, to say goodbye. A single year had felt so long, and yet two had passed in what felt like the blink of an eye. It wasn’t nearly enough time, and the tight embrace didn’t seem to last half as long as it should, though decidedly longer than friends should touch. Tears held back and smiled forced-- was it even all real, or perhaps-- this was some sort of end to a childish misadventure.
Five, across the expanse. Touch kept, though not felt. Distance not seeming so fatal when familiar smiles shine through pixelated screens. Laughter echoing to call upon memory. Repeated words; I miss you. Can’t time go faster? I need to see you again.
Six, those feelings never really faded. What a mistake to think they would, to think this was somehow a mistake. Hearts race like the first time, electric as ever;
The first mention of
I think I love you.
