His caramel irises followed the trail of autumn leaves. A girl around his age sat on the bench, reading a Nicholas Sparks book. A bold red scarf was wrapped around her neck, protecting herself from the windy weather. Her long, brown curls cascaded down her shoulder and it reminded him of her. He shoved his hand into his pockets and continued his walk in the park.
A million thoughts flew around in his head as he avoided the flashes and lights. Some of the thoughts were curses at the paparazzi that were invading his privacy and blinding his eyes. The majority of his thoughts were contemplating whether to give it a shot...again.
He swiftly made his way into his apartment before the photographers could ask him questions about his private life. He unlocked the door with his keys and closed it behind him. He switched on the lights and dropped his keys on the counter as it made a familiar clang. He plunged into his sofa, taking in its comfy and soft texture. He closed his eyes briefly and an image of her flashed in the darkness. Soon, every memory associated with her played in his mind. A sigh came out of his lips as he fingered his dog tag. It was one that she specially made for him. It was a gift that he could never forget.
"Nicholas, close your eyes." She demanded with a smile playing on her pink glossed lips.
His eyebrows furrowed in curiosity and confusion but he obeyed her and closed his eyes. A cool feeling wrapped around his neck and he felt the familiar touch of a chain. She leaned forward and stopped past his ear. She whispered, "Open your eyes."
His hands flew to his neck and realized it was a necklace. A dog tag hung at the end and he took a closer look at it. 'The year of no fear' was engraved on it. His eyes looked up to find her chocolate brown ones were staring right into his. He entwined his fingers through hers and spoke softly, "Thank you, Selena. It's perfect." He had a smile on his lips as she leaned in for a kiss. It was passionate. A 'no rush, just love' kiss that made her heart swooned.
He let out an irritated sigh and decided to go for it. He grabbed his iPhone on the coffee table and dialed in her number. Her name flashed on the screen and he hesitated for a second. He clicked on it and held the phone to his ear, listening to the dial tone.
"Nick?" She softly whispered on the third ring. His heart palpitated, his throat was suddenly raw. He swallowed and closed his eyes, trying to imagine her on the phone in her room or a restaurant. He licked his lips, "Am I disturbing you?"
She replied immediately, "No, I'm just reading a script for a new movie."
He inwardly sighed, carefully thinking of the set of words he's about to say. The dilemma returned to his mind. Should I or should I not? the question ran around in his mind. He was tired of playing these games and decided to take his brother's advice which was to give it a try even though all hope was lost.
"If you're not too busy, perhaps a coffee date will be alright?"