By: Katie Gaiser

My pulse quickens; I can feel the beating in my ears. Heart heavy, I breathe this feeling in and out of my lungs. The sweet scent of love swirls around me. Perfect skin; soft, warm. Eyes as deep as the ocean. She could say it all with a look. A laugh that lightens hearts, a smile that breaks them. Lips much like chocolate. Sweet, luscious, addictive. A mind that leaves you impressed and amazed. Wisdom that you can’t find just anywhere. A personality that keeps you coming back, keeps you wanting more. A temper that fuels her passion. A mischievous grin, she’ll always keep you guessing. She’s sexy; she’s beautiful; she’s one of a kind. She moves with such grace, perfectly comfortable in her own skin. A confidence that most people lack.

I watch her approach, focused on each step she takes. I see her smile at everyone she passes, with nothing less than a kind word to dispense. She’s getting closer and closer, the tapping of her shoes louder and louder. I take a step back, overwhelmed by her. Her attention focuses on me. I turn around to avoid her penetrating eyes. I’m not sure where she’s going, but I wish it would be anywhere but here. I focus on the task in front of me, trying to seem engaged. Suddenly, the world is silent. The tapping has ceased. I take a deep breath, calming my nerves. She’s gone.

“Hey there,” I hear behind me. A jolt shoots through my body; my heart begins to race. I feel that familiar feeling in the pit of my stomach. I’d recognize that voice anywhere. I slowly turn around to meet my fate. Our eyes lock; my knees feel weak. I greet her with a weak smile.

“Hi,” I reply softly, trying to keep my nerves at bay.

“I was wondering if you could come see me later,” she says with a warm expression. I can feel all the blood rush to my face. I avert her gaze, glancing down at my bag.

“Sure,” I barely spit out, looking up at her. “Why?”

“Oh, there’s just something I need to show you. When I saw it, I immediately thought of you,” she said with a smile. My entire body smiled back. She thought of me. I nod my head.

“Ok,” I said. We share a moment of silence which felt like forever. She looks at me curiously, tilting her head and placing her hand on my shoulder.

“You ok? You look a little flushed,” she asks sounding concerned. My entire body burns on contact. I ache for her.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” I lie. “I just have a lot on my mind.”

“I know how that is,” she responds with a light sigh. Suddenly, there was an announcement on the PA. “Miss Kelly: Please report to the principal’s office immediately. Thank you.” She looks at me and shakes her head.

“Hope I’m not in trouble,” she says with a smirk. I laugh nervously, hoping she isn’t noticing my complete awkwardness. “Well, I should be going. But please come and see me, will you?”

“Of course,” I answer immediately. I’d do anything for her.

“Great,” she says with one last sweet smile. Before I know it, she is gone. I take a deep breath and turn around to close my locker. See you after school Miss Kelly.

Known by all, admired by many, loved by one. Me.