My hands shaking, my stomach full of butterflies, I reached to the overhead compartment and retrieved my bag. I hoped I didn't appear to be as nervous as I really was. I followed the line of people heading to the door. My mind on possibilities, making our way to the gate. As we passed through the hall coming to the end, I could hear greetings. Families meeting their loved ones, exclaiming their happiness for their reunion. I wondered if you'd recognize me. I wondered if I'd recognize you. I thought back to the months of emails and chats we've had. It all started so innocently, how did it come this far? Then my heart reminds me why.
As I scan the crowd, a familiar face stops me dead in my tracks. I had no idea the power this moment would have. Your eyes met mine, and the two of us stood frozen. I could hear people around me, yet you're the only one I see. Slowly, your lips curl into a knowing grin. Your relaxed look eases my tension and I'm able to move forward again, every small step closing the gap between us.
"How was your flight, my lovely lady?" you ask, as you take my hand, kissing my knuckles.
The pictures you had sent me had lied. For months I had admired your handsome frame and warm smile, but as much as I had admired you then, couldn't compare to the way you stopped my heart now. Your deliberate moves much like a bird in flight, so natural, so determined, and yet graceful and smooth. I notice a glimmer in your eyes that had never shown in the photos, a treasure I'm happy to find in person.
You led me through the crowded airport and to the parking lot where your car awaited. When you opened the door, you grabbed something off the front seat. "What do ya got in there," I asked. You turned around, handing me a dozen of the most beautiful roses I'd ever seen. My heart turning to liquid, I smiled up at you and kissed your cheek, thanking you for the romantic gesture.
We climbed into the car, and you began driving, telling me that you were so happy I had decided to come. We exchanged excited stares through out the ride, and when we finally arrived at our destination, you ran around the car to my side to take my hand as I got out. A clichéé sort of gesture, yet ever so appreciated none the less.
I stepped out of the car and took in my surroundings. It was as if we had arrived inside a painting. The cottage sitting about ten feet from a sandy private beach, and behind the cottage was a beautiful forest. You explained to me that the cottage had been in your family for years as you took my bag and led me inside the tiny wooden home.
I could see you had taken considerable time making the place inviting for me. There were fresh Lilacs in small vases around the room, the scent lingering every where I walked. There were many many candles around the room, varying in sizes and colors, some left unlit, while others burning brightly. The place had an air of manliness, yet I couldn't help but notice how you tried all you could to bring out some of the more feminine things that I imagined you felt I would feel more comfortable with having around. I giggled as my eyes drifted to a chalkboard, about the size of a large picture, sitting on the table near the kitchen. You had made me a welcome sign. How sweet, I thought. I looked to you and found you staring. You had a slightly embarrassed look on you.
"Oh, its so beautiful! Thank you. I can tell you went to great lengths to make me feel at home," I said, smiling brightly. The look on your face softened, your eyes lit up, and you smiled broadly.