I take my pen off the paper and take a deep, shakey breath before continuing.
I know that this may sound a bit crazy, but it has been too long for me not telling you the whole truth about my feelings. I hope that no matter how you react to this that we are still friends. I have feelings for you Charles, real, deep, loving feelings. As more than just a friend. I just needed to say that to you before I continue my career and may lose you to another woman. I hope you can understand. Write back soon.
With love,
Elizabeth.
I fold the letter in thirds, put it in an envelope, and begin my walk to send the letter to Charles. I go back to my room and start getting ready for the outing me and my friends are going on tonight to celebrate our accomplishments.
By the start of the next week, I have almost completely forgotten about the letter. One afternoon about a week after my letter was sent, I hear a knock on my door. I am not expecting anyone, so I come to the door a bit confused. I open the door and my breath catches in my lungs.
I look up at the person standing in my doorway,
holding a letter,
my letter.
It's Charles.
We both stand there for a moment just looking at each other until he finally says
"How long have you been feeling like this?"
He sounds angry, loving, and sweet all at the same time.
"Since right before I came here." I managed to squeak out.
"Come in Charles. We can't talk out here."
He walks past me into my small living quarters.
He runs his fingers through his hair and then says, "I need to tell you something Elizabeth, something I've been meaning to tell you for a very long time."
He closes the gap in between the two of us in one stride.
"I love you Elizabeth." I feel my cheeks go bright red as he continues, looking straight into my eyes, leaving me staring into a sea of blue. "And now I know you feel the same way."
He pushes his lips to mine and I tighten, for just a moment, then I melt into his strong embrace.