Excerpt: To See Sky

“… the end.”

Closing the book, she drew in a deep breath, and looked up to the simulated summer sky. An impossible shade of blue, one had to wonder whether the real sky had ever looked so bright. Another sigh and she reluctantly pulled herself off the bench. There was always that melancholy feeling after finishing a wonderful book. She slipped back into her flats and started back to the library, her place of employment and her home not so far away from home.

“Hey, Emily,” someone called, “Think fast.” Turning just in time, she was able to dodge a ball aimed towards her head. It flew past, landed on the perfect green grass, and rolled further away.

“You’re supposed to catch it,” said the handsome young man.

“Mhm,” she replied, an exaggerated hint of annoyance in her demeanor. “What do you want, Charlie?”

He shrugged. Charlie Hopkins was a budding writer. They met in the library when he threw a pencil in frustration just as Emily was walking past. He apologized for stabbing her in the leg, and he’s been following her around ever since.

“Interested in a tea?” he asked, trying to tempt her by staring at her deeply with his bright brown eyes. Emily sighed in reply and continued her stroll through the park. Charlie was undeterred.

“See, I remember that you don’t drink coffee, so I’m asking if you want a tea.”

“No, thanks, Charlie.”

“Why can’t you see how much I adore you?” He was really laying it on thick, making it even easier to resist.

“Why can’t you see how much I don’t care?” she imitated.

“I can. That’s why I try so hard to make you care. How about a chocolate? I know you love that.” She didn’t even glance, so he added, “It’s the orange kind.”

Letting out a breath, she gave in, turned, and took the chocolate he offered. She finally made eye contact, and they shared a simple smile.

“I knew you couldn’t resist. I’m just like this chocolate, you know. You’ll see in the end. We were made for each other. I want you, Emily. I always will. I won’t give up until I have you in my arms. And when I have you in my arms, I’ll never let go. Not for eternity. Not for…”

“Hey, Charlie,” she interrupted, then waited until she had his full attention to continue. “Didn’t you just lose your balls?”

“It’s just the one ball, actually,” he replied without missing a beat. “Well, until tomorrow, my dear Emily.” He bowed dramatically, gazing up with a smirk on his face. Emily watched him walk away.

As much as she knew it was all just a game, it was flattering all the same. Her smile persisted as she walked back to the library.