AN: It's been awhile, hasn't it? Just want to wish all the best to the Class of 2011. Also, if you're looking for a special grad gift, how about one of my books?
Thought of this little scene last night – thanks Muircheartach for the nudge to write some more Line.
Someone Like You (Lucy, The Line Up – this would take place during the football game she comes back to see Bronwyn)
"Never mind
I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
"Don't forget me," I begged
"I'll remember," you said
"Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead."
Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead,
Yeah."
- Someone Like You, Adele
Pulling into the familiar high school parking lot, I thought about the last time I was here – which had to have been Bronwyn's sophomore year. Since then I had been keeping busy at college, working, studying, and genuinely enjoying myself. Still, given her crazy season, I knew she needed some support this evening. Also, there would always be a special place in my heart for watching the Forrest Hills drum line. Getting my umbrella out of the backseat, I wondered if anyone else besides Spence would be around.
"Lucy Karate?"
I knew whose voice it was without even turning around. Nevada Petersen. I did a rush mental check over myself – at least I was decently put together. My shorter haircut had been an impulse when my 11:00AM class had been cancelled, and, for some unknown reason I hoped he would appreciate it. Turning around slowly, I looked him over. The ginger hair was a bit longer and he was a few pounds heavier, but it suited his frame. I had monitored him via facebook, but there was nothing like seeing him in person. Standing in the parking lot I was suddenly transported back to my junior year of high school. For any self-confidence I had gained since then, Nevada always had a way of turning me into a blushing idiot.
"Hey there," I responded. I stood still and was glad when he opened his arms for a hug. Perhaps because of my own current lack of romantic life, I enjoyed the embrace a bit more than I should have. Maybe crushes never fully go away. Maybe even after four years apart, feelings like the ones I had for him don't go away. Finally stepping back, I asked, "What are you doing here?"
"My sister is in the color guard."
"Oh, yeah, I knew that."
"And I wanted to bring my girlfriend to show her what my life used to be like at good ole' Forrest Hills."
"That's nice." So far, I was off to a killer start. Given it had taken me a little over two years to merely put together a sentence around this guy, I thought I should give myself a little more credit.
We fell in stride walking towards the stadium. Suddenly there were a million questions I wanted to ask him. Even though it had been my choice to date Sam, a small part wondered what would've happened if I had stuck it out with Nevada. Would I be his girlfriend now? Would I have still dated Wes? Had enough time passed where I could ask him these questions? When Nevada had graduated, I realized there hadn't been true closure with the situation. I managed to finally say, "So, you must be in your senior year. What's your degree going to be in?"
"Graphic design."
"Cool."
Passed by students, parents and alumni, we walked silently. Finally, I started, "Nevada..."
"No need, Lucy," he interrupted.
"You're sure?"
"The timing wasn't ours."
And now? I wanted to ask. Now that I knew a bit more about myself, couldn't we meet up for coffee? He tucked a strong arm around me and said, "Can I give you a bit of advice, Ms. Karate?"
"Always," I said, snuggling closer to his side, not caring he belonged to someone else.
"Next time you worry about timing with a guy, just go for it. Don't wait."
"Sounds like a good plan."
"It's how things worked out between me and Caroline."
"I look forward to meeting her." And I was surprised to find that I meant the words.
"Thanks, Luce."
We walked in silence to the field and the memories we had shared.