Morning
She lay in bed, watching the shadows from the rising sun dance on the wall.
She had thought him interesting if painfully reserved. Attractive, but not her type. These were passing thoughts.
He had been helpful, expanding on her nascent ideas, guiding her in the right direction. She’d been proud when he acknowledged her superior skills.
She’d noticed his lone wolf status. Wondered if he had room in his life for a friend. She tried to broaden his narrow world. He appreciated many of her attempts. Once, she thought she saw him smile.
When her grandmother died, she went straight to his quarters, eyes swollen with tears. She apologized for bringing all her emotions to him. He said nothing at first, but held her, then whispered I grieve with thee. When she could cry no more, she looked at him. You are the dearest friend I’ve ever had, she said. She dried her tears and thanked him. She went home.
When the semester ended he brought her a gift. Chrystal earrings in the shape of stars. For you are the brightest of stars, he had said, his dark eyes searching hers. She saw in those brown eyes everything she wanted. He stepped closer, waiting. She smiled her yes, and he kissed her.
She lay in bed, watching the shadows from the rising sun dance on the wall. Half of my soul, he whispered. She smiled. Half of my heart, she replied, and wrapped her arms tighter around him.