Grace had such a way with people. If I could inherit some of her confidence, maybe I wouldn't be stuttering and tripping over my own tongue all the time. Honestly, I was the worst speaker in my family. I was absolutely horrid compared to some of my relatives; Ian Kabra, for example.
Ian Kabra. He's one I haven't thought much of before today. The day I met him, I thought he was the best thing that happened to me. Now, he was the exact opposite. Without realizing it, my mind went back to the day I met his acquaintance.
Grace was throwing her annual Christmas party at her mansion. This was the only thing I really looked forward to during the holiday season, since Dan and I didn't get anything from Aunt Beatrice, not even a visit. Naturally, we were always excited when that invitation came in the mail.
I remember that year like it was yesterday. I was twelve, almost thirteen, so it was only a few years ago. Someone had spilled punch on my shirt and I overreacted. I ran to the bathroom and got cleaned up, but I couldn't return to the party. It would have been too embarrassing. Of course, I headed to the library.
I had picked out my favorite book, A Little Princess, and headed to my favorite leather chair. After reading for a few minutes, I heard a rustling noise. Putting down the book, I decided to check it out.
A boy was standing in the corner, looking at the volumes. He reached for a plain looking one that I easily recognized. Oedipus the King. The story of a man who killed his own father and married his own mother. I'd read it all too many times, wondering how a person could not recognize his own kin.
I tried to sneak away before the boy saw me. However, he turned around to see my attempt at escape. We locked eyes, and I saw him fully for the first time. He had an Italian look to him; tanned skin, dark hair, and matching dark eyes. He was wearing designer clothes, so I assumed he was wealthy. Seeing as he was reading a play by Sophocles, I guessed he was either smart or well-read. Needless to say, I was thoroughly impressed.
He flashed me a smile as bright as the sun. "Hello," he annunciated. "I don't believe we've had the pleasure. My name is Ian." I mentally noted that he was a flawless speaker.
"I-I'm… I'm Amy," I stuttered, internally cursing myself for being shy around people.
"Wonderful to meet you," Ian said. "I'm sorry. Did you want this book? I must admit, I have read it multiple times. It's a personal favorite," he added with a smile.
I opened my mouth to say no, but no words came out, so I simply shook my head.
"Shall we sit?"
To this, I nodded and led the way to my chair.
I couldn't focus on the story with him next to me. He was just, wow. The way he blinked, the way he breathed, the way he turned pages of the book (and sometimes doing all three at once!)… I thought I was in love. Feeling stupid for not saying anything, I mustered up the courage to ask Ian a question.
"So… you like Sophocles?"
He looked up and gave me a grin. "Of course," he replied. "I find Greek writings to be absolutely fascinating, especially this one. I have always wondered how Oedipus' children felt about having their mother the same being as their grandmother."
"D-didn't it say they were confused?"
Ian's face wrinkled. "I'm not quite sure. Let's have a look…"
He brought the book to the coffee table between our chairs. We searched the pages for a few seconds each. Before I knew it, I could feel his sweet, warm breath around my face. I looked up, only to see his piercing eyes gazing into mine.
Ian leaned forward. My stomach lurched. From nowhere, I had a sudden burst of confidence. I put my mouth on his and felt him smile. I was kissing a total stranger.
And I liked it.
The kiss only lasted but a few moments. I could tell Ian enjoyed it, but he was slightly embarrassed.
"Well, I really must be going back to the party," he announced, standing up. Before leaving, he offered me his arm. "Care to come with me?"
"No t-thanks," I stuttered. Why was I so nervous? I just kissed this guy, and now I stammer. I couldn't believe how lame I was.
"As you wish." He was at the library doors when he turned around to face me once more. "Merry Christmas, Amy."