Literary Haven

The crowd erupted in cheers as a flurry of graduations caps filled the air, celebrating the class of 2007. We did it! I did it! I graduated from high school, and now it’s time to step into adulthood. As I pick up my cap and weave through the sea of people in search of my friends, I suddenly collide with a figure who feels as solid as a brick wall. I take a moment to inhale, captivated by the alluring scent of his cologne mixed with the crisp aroma of Irish Spring soap.  

“I’m really sorry,” I say, glancing up at the person I’ve bumped into. My brain hitches as I lock eyes with him; his striking blue gaze holds mine, and his with smile reveals full, inviting lips. I attempt to back away, but my foot catches on one of the metal chairs, and just as I’m about to stumble, he swiftly catches me by the waist, preventing both a fall and a wave of embarrassment.  

“Thanks,” I managed to say, standing upright, my cheeks flushing a deep pink as I step out of his hold.  

“Of course… So, how have you been?” 

“I’m good….. But I really have to go,” I reply, my heart racing as I scan the crowd, desperate to escape this unexpected encounter.  

“Hey, Elsie, I wanted to…” He starts, but I’m already moving on, intent on finding my friends and leaving this moment behind.  

I catch a sight of my friends, Felicity and Mara, amidst the sea of familiar faces and make my way toward them. “Uh, thanks again. And sorry for bumping into you,” I say hurriedly, retreating as quickly as I had approached. I can’t help but glance back on last time, and I see him still watching me until Joe and Danny, pull him into their celebration, exchanging high fives and chest bumps. “We did it, guys!” They cheer.  

I reach my best friends and pull them into a tight embrace, laughter bubbling up between us. “Hey, were you just talking to…” Felicity starts, shooting a knowing look at Mara, but I swiftly try to steer the conversation away from that moment. 

“Alright, are you guys ready to track down our families, and then see what kind of trouble we can get into?” I ask, excitement bubbling in my chest. “Hell yeah!” The girls respond, “but not too much trouble cause I still want to make it to Disneyland!” Mara chimes in with a grin. We all burst into laughter as we make our way through the double doors. 

As I take on last glance over my shoulder, our eyes meet for just a fleeting moment. A pang of heartache washes over me, pulling me back to the painful memories of our break up and the harsh reality that followed. He broke my heart and chose someone else. Milo was my first love, and the imprint of the love still lingers in my mind, unshakable and unforgettable.