I was anxious to see his face again, but unwilling for our encounter to end. I took a deep breath and moved, as if the simple action of taking each step was timed, he turned and rose to his feet, his face blank. I thought my heart was going to race out of my chest. I hoped for a sign this time, some kind of acknowledgment from him. Was he happy to see me? Was I not what he was expecting? What secret thoughts were running through his mind?

             I knew the time had come. No more stalling, I had to go to him. I began moving toward the stream where he stood.  This time, I would look directly at him, look into his eyes and make myself known.

            “Bre, this is Collin,” a voice introduced me as I approached. Though the voice was somehow familiar, I was oblivious to who had said it. All I cared about was making sure I captured this moment in every detail.  Collin’s deep, royal blue eyes looked into mine and I realized I had never felt like this before.  My nerves flared with an intensity that burned deep within me and held me captive in his gaze. Every bit of him was perfect. His silky hair fell perfectly over each side of his face. Occasionally, a strand or two would move gently across his forehead and dance along his eyes. His shirt melted into his chest, making it impossible for me to ignore the definition of his body.

            He slowly lifted his hand, gesturing for me to take it. “It’s nice to meet you Bre.” His bright smile stretched across his mouth as he waited for me to respond.