Lost ~ A KOTLC Story

Part 19

*Tam*

Since we changed the clocks, a couple of days back, we have more daylight hours. I decide that, after work, instead of heading straight home, like I used to, I'll stop at the nature reserve. Its quiet this time of day. Quiet is something I love.

I lean back on the park bench and close my eyes. The breeze ruffles my hair.

Everything is near silent for a few minutes when I hear the sound of footsteps. The sound of shoes making contact with the paved road that weaves around the reserve.

I want to tune out the noise but when it gets louder as the sound comes closer, I open my eyes, curious to see who dares cause a disruption in my serenity.

That person turns out to be Biana Vacker.

She sits down beside me and says, "seems we like to hang out in the same places."

"Yeah it does seem that way."

I give her a quick glance before shutting my eyes once more. Only for a moment.

"Sorry I disturbed you," she says getting up and straightening out her already straight skirt.

I sigh. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you feel unwelcome."

"No worries," she plays with the ends of her hair, "I anyway came to walk around so... see you around."

Before I could say anything else she walks down the winding path that leads away from me and towards the lake.

I watch her go.

*Biana*

I tell myself not to take it personally. Tam is just the type of person who enjoys spending time alone. Nonetheless, I feel the sting of rejection.

I walk close to the lake, close enough I can see my own frowning face staring back at me.

I pull away and continue walking.

Stop thinking about Tam. Focus on the beautiful sights around you, Biana.

I take in the tall trees with sun-dappled leaves, the sound of numerous bird species, the soft lapping of the lake and the colorful blossoming flowers.

I read a sign that says that the lake is full of fish and bobbing birds and its safe to dip your feet in.

I decide I may as well. The water does look inviting. I take off my sandals and tentatively push at the water with my toe. The water feels cool but not cold. I take a deep breath and dunk my foot in the water. My other foot joins it shortly thereafter.

I let myself enjoy the moment. Breathe in the beautiful outside air.

Suddenly I feel a tap on my shoulder, and I turn to find Tam sitting down right beside me.

"Mind if I join you?"

"Not at all" I smile at him.

He kicks off his shoes and puts his feet into the water.

"I have to say this feels great," Tam says wistfully.

"It really does."

We are both silent for a moment, enjoying the feeling when Tam says, "hey Biana?"

"Yeah Tam?" I turn so I can face him better.

"I have something I have been meaning to tell you."

My heart rate quickens. I do hope he's going to say what I want him to say.

Tam's fingers toy with the necklace I gave him. I'm thankful he likes it enough to wear it.

I give him an encouraging nod.

"I like you."

"Like more than a friend kind of like?" I feel the need to clarify before I allow myself to get excited.

"Yeah." He replies simply.

"Well, I'm glad because I like you too Tam Song."

As soon as those words pass my lips, Tam presses his perfect mouth against mine.

With him I don't feel so lost. I don't feel misunderstood.

With him- I'm found.

And somehow, I know he feels the same.