Behind Closed Doors

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Yesterday's rain had imbued the surrounding with fresh vitality. Petrichor lingered in the air and the leaves swayed with the gentle wind. The faint glow of the sinking sun cast riveting shadows on the pavement. The weather was pleasant—perfect for a run. Christopher was not the sole being who found the day alluring; the park was astir. He had a fondness for the sunset hues and his eyes could hardly abandon the view until he completed his third lap. Stopping to catch his breath with hands on his knees, Christopher failed to notice the figure leaping at his body and tumbled to the ground. Wet licks on the face jolted him out of shock.

"Oh, I'm sorry! Are you okay?", a honeyed voice inquired.

The dog moved to stand beside its owner. He righted himself and dusted the grass off his clothes. Suddenly realising the need to reply to his audience, he chuckled.

"Yes, yes, it's quite alright. She is an energetic one, yeah?", he asked the brunette.

"I apologise on Laney's behalf. Are you sure you are fine? You should sit, come."

Taking his hand, she pulled him towards a bench nearby. A book on the seat caught his attention.

"Do you sketch?"

She blushed lightly, "Uh, yes. It's only a hobby."

"I'm sure you are amazing.", he grinned, looking into her brown eyes.

The dimples on his face dazzled her. In her silence, he turned to pet the dog.

She took notice of Laney's behaviour with the man; her brain could not catch up to her mouth, "Do you have one, too?"

The handsome man turned to look at her; his eyes sparkled as he whispered, "Yes. My pet."

"Oh, which breed?"

He remained attractive even as he frowned and lines mapped on his face.

"I-I found her, so I'm not sure. She is beautiful—painfully so—with her coal black hair and pale blue eyes. Alice is art in herself."

Talking about Alice had reminded Christopher that she was waiting for him.

"I need to go now. It was nice meeting you."

The passion in his eyes captivated her. She smiled at him but it disappeared when she saw him standing. Daydreaming had caused her to miss most of what he had said.

"Wait!", she cried out.