Numb

The reality of it all was blinding. She had one chance. His hurtful words stung like fire to her soul. She had wanted to know how he felt about her. And he had told her bluntly, without regret. But he couldn't help feeling a slight, almost-not-there feeling. A tiny voice inside his head, saying "Why are you doing this to her? Why are you hurting her? Can't you see the sadness and pain in her eyes?"

She continued to give him a look, once bright, blue, innocent eyes dulled by the evening's conversation. She felt tears welling up in her eyes, but refused to cry, no matter how much it hurt, no matter how much she longed to be at home, face buried in her pillow, she wouldn't humiliate herself. After they had finished their meal, she got up and walked out the door, grateful for fresh air, and grateful that it was raining; he wouldn't have to see her tears. She walked down the street, almost wishing she hadn't asked him to go on a date with her. So, in all actuality, she had brought this on herself. The rain pounded down harder. Just as the reality of tonight had pounded her hopes and dreams, making her numb all the way to her core.