A Thousand Years
She approaches, and my heart rapidly increases its beat. I avert my eyes because she's looking at me. The sketchbook in my lap is opened to my most recent drawing.
It's her, but it's not. Her face, stern, as it usually is in school, is perfect. I've captured her stubborn scowl and turned it into an expression of beauty. I know I have talent. Surely Gale couldn't have done this.
But it's not complete without color. My paintbrush finds the pallet and begins to mix. It's hard to find the color of her hair in the sunglight. Eventually, I get it, and slowly fill in her braid.
"Is that me?" Her voice startles me and I slam the book shut, smudging the paint.
"Yes," I say bravely, even though I'm terrified of where this conversation may lead to, what might happen.
"Why were you drawing me, Peeta?" she asks. It's the first conversation we've had. Even though her voice is poisoned with anger, I can't help but smile.
"Why not?" I reply. This irritates her. "But I'm not finished yet. I promise, I'll show you when it's done."
"Don't bother," she says and turns to leave.
I remember when I fell in love with her. We were both young, but a love like ours can't be denied because of youth. She had a beautiful voice, and I watched her walk home. That seemed like a thousand years ago. And it might as well have been. I'll love her for a thousand more if I have to, if that's how long it takes for us to be together.
When she walks, time stands still. Her beauty is natural, not forced or practiced. She doesn't even know how beautiful she is.
When she passes, I feel faint. But I'm brave. I stand, firmly. She's standing in front of me. I hold my breath. The moment seems to last for hours.
The only thing that makes it fall short of perfect is the fact that she never meets my eyes.
One day we'll find each other. Time will bring her heart to me. I will love her like Gale has never loved her. Past, present, and future.
One step at a time.
Disclaimer: Unfortunately, I don't own the characters (Suzanne Collins) or the song (Christina Perri). Please share your thoughts.