The library has been my hangout since Austin left. I refuse to go to the park or even back to Redhead's again. Lynn told me last night that some of the waitresses have asked where I'd gone. I can only imagine what Lynn must have said but I can certainly picture the gossipy girls' faces as they pass each other in and out of the kitchen. "He left her," One would whisper trying to balance three plates on each arm, "for his sick father…"

Frusturated I slam my Anatomy textbook too hard causing several annoyed glances to look up. I stare down at my hands pretending it wasn't me. It doesn't matter what anyone says. Austin had to go. It's commendable. I'm just being selfish. I would probably do the same. I stuff my homework in my green messenger bag, throw the strap over my head, and let it fall across my chest. My feet quietly tread across the bluish gray carpet towards the two mahogany double doors. A hot pink flyer lies in front of the doors. I pause and pick it up scanning the bold text. Poetry Nite! Here at Princeton Public Library. Come share your work! September 16th

"Are you going?" a thick Australian accent asks behind me. I jump crushing the flyer to my chest. A tall slender guy around my age smiles warmly at me. His shoulder length light brown hair gives him the weathered rock star look. His eyes are a deep shade of chocolate. His baggy jeans cling to his very narrow waist. The black sweatshirt hugs his broad chest featuring the British flag. A little tattoo of a crescent moon smiles at me from the patch of skin between his index finger and thumb atop his tan hand.

A blush quickly rises to my cheeks. I'm checking him out. What's wrong with me?

A voice from the backside of my brain answers quickly. He's gorgeous. Why wouldn't you check him out? Well don't just stand there stupid! Say something clever! Or at least say your name! Hurry now, he's looking at you funny! Speak!

"Sam," I say loudly speaking over the two voices combating for my attention. "My name is Sam. And yeah, I'm going. Who are you?" Oh my god. I sound like an illiterate idiot. Just shoot me. Someone please just burst into the library and blow me away…

"Riley Mosely nice to meet you Sam," He nods extending his hand, the one with the blue moon. I take it gingerly noting the strong grip and long fingers. "You go to Princeton?" I nod not giving myself permission to speak again. "Ah a smart girl, that's a nice change" He winks and cocks his head showing off his perfect smile. I blush tremendously looking away with a slight smile. He lets go stepping back to give me a good look.

"You seem like a good girl. How 'bout you and I hang out sometime?" He shoves both hands in his jean pockets, his chocolate covered irises studying my face.

No! No! No! You're Austin's! Austin! Hellooo! Austin is your boyfriend not this slick joker. Come on Sam. Live a little! It's been a week and Austin still hasn't called you. Any good boyfriend would at least call you to tell you "What's up!" Don't miss this opportunity just because you want to play the role of damsel in distress! Sam, listen to me. Do you love Austin? Screw that Sammy! Love could be right in front of you and you're just going to let it leave you… again.

"I would love to," I say still feeling the sting of the last thought. He grins again flashing me the whites of his teeth.

"Perfect. Well I guess I'll see you here tonight"

"Tonight?"

"For the poetry reading," He says giving me a queer look, "You are one odd girl, Sam. I'll give you that". The twinkle in his eyes lets me know he's joking. I let out a rush of nervous air.

"Bye Riley Mosely. It was, ah, weird to have met you," I call over my shoulder as I vacate the premises as fast as possible. I hope I didn't make a mistake. Trust me, Sam. You didn't. Oh well, too late now right? Right! Now take a left here and figure out what the hell you're going to wear. Get Lynn to help you! You've been dressed as a college kid for way too long. Now scoot!

"Will you shut up?" I mutter to myself. Oh my God. I'm going mentally insane.

But, I'm happy. That's all that matters. I bounce up the steps of the apartment like I used to brimming with energy and loving life for the second time. I throw open the door and find Lynn sitting on the couch sobbing. Her face contorting into things I have never seen her heart purge before.