2. The first time I noticed Edward was exactly a week after the day that I didn't. I finished my volunteer shift at the LGBT center much later than usual, then went straight to the campus Starbucks as always, ordering black coffee to counteract the weariness. I loved helping people; I felt it was so important to let them know that they weren't alone, but sometimes the stories sickened me, tired me out. I wouldn't sleep well regardless, so coffee was a comfort. I slid into a booth and pulled out my book, a trashy novel that required no thought, filling the aching spaces in my brain with drivel. I was aware of a soft voice asking if it was okay to sit at my table, and was momentarily irritated – it was hardly crowded at this time of night. I looked up as I grunted, whatever, and had to look back down again. Because although I hadn't noticed Edward before, I definitely noticed him then.
I noticed so much in that first glance. I noticed pale skin, so pale it was nearly blue under the unflattering neon lights. I noticed thick, bronze hair, not very long, but not short either. I noticed sculpted cheekbones and a strong jaw, barely dusted with stubble. I noticed green eyes; eyes blazing with hope and desire.
I stared at the same page of my book for the whole time it took me to drink my coffee, reading the same words over and over again, not daring to look back up.