She was thankful for the sparkle in Zoey's eyes; the way she squinted as she laughed, giddy and full of warmth.
She was thankful for the short, curly hair that framed Zoey's face; as she smiled and leaned into her touch, holding the wrist of the hand she had placed on Zoey's hip.
She was thankful for the way the drums―no matter how distant they were―drowned out her own beating heart―for Zoey surely could have heard it echoing in her otherwise hollow chest.
She was thankful for Zoey's warm breath against her neck, cutting through the chill air of the night.
She was thankful for the way Zoey lead their dance; slow and meaningful and a bit awkward when they nearly slipped on the wet grass.
She was thankful for how Zoey held onto her―with her arms snaking their way upwards to wrap tightly around her neck; possessive, but not controlling―like Zoey knew this couldn't last, but she would fight to make what little time they had wonderful and worth the battle.
She was thankful for how gently Zoey brushed away the bleached hair that fell over her eyes, smoothing it after untucking the locks from the collar of her dress shirt.
She was thankful for how Zoey's scarlet dress stood out against the open meadow, almost a signal for help amongst the scattered trees―but Zoey didn't need help; she was her help.
She was thankful that Zoey had found them a cozy spot to stargaze; surrounded by nature, yet close enough to a small concert, giving the little campsite a calm and surreal atmosphere.
She was thankful for the light illuminating Zoey's dark skin, warm undertones bringing out the golden flecks in her eyes; overflowing with too many emotions for her to get a grasp on, let alone to read.
She was thankful for Zoey's voice; energetic, usually, but now low and thick and sweet―like caramel.
She was thankful for the pounding in Zoey's chest and they shifted closer―a sign that made her ears burn and hands shake against Zoey's hips.
She was thankful for her. For Zoey. For everything she's done for her.
For those four words that she whispered―a reassurance, a promise, almost to herself.
"I love you, Alice."