How do you navigate a world that has always seemed just out of grasp?
Isabela has always known how to navigate life without sight. Growing up in a small town on California's coast, she relied on her instincts, her unbreakable connection to the sea...
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I really didn't think he was going to text. The whole "date" thing felt like something said in the heat of the moment, maybe to be polite or just to save face. I was convinced he'd turn out to be a player. I mean, he's Enzo DeLuca, a literal superstar. Guys like him don't go out of their way for girls like me, especially not after just meeting them. No matter how much I liked him—and God, did I like him—I just figured this was one of those things where reality doesn't match the fantasy. He's the first person I've felt comfortable enough to talk to in a long time, someone who seems to get me, whether we're laughing over something stupid or sharing our real dreams and goals.
Still, I was skeptical. Even after Julian teased me, telling me he knew Enzo was falling for me, that he'd seen the way Enzo's expression changed when I laughed or how his face turned stone-cold when I got embarrassed—like he'd fight whoever caused it—I couldn't believe it. I brushed it off. Julian's my best friend, but surely he was reading into things too much.
So, when my phone actually dinged that afternoon and Enzo's name lit up my screen, I was floored. Totally speechless for a second. He actually messaged me.
Text message from Enzo: Hey beautiful, so how are we still feeling about the date? I would love to go out today, but I totally understand if you need more time to get onboard with dating a good-looking superstar.
I stared at the screen for a minute, trying to figure out how I felt. I mean, part of me wanted to say yes immediately, but another part of me wasn't sure if I was ready. After all, I was still recovering. My body felt tired, and I definitely needed more sleep. But mostly, I was scared. I didn't want to screw this up. I didn't want to go out with him and be a disappointment, especially because he didn't seem to see me as just a "blind girl," and that was rare.
I started talking into my phone, hesitating a bit with every word.
Hey... I'm really excited about it, but I'm still recovering, and I think I might need more rest. I don't want to push myself too hard.
Enzo's reply came quickly: Of course, I totally get that. You should take care of yourself first. I can wait as long as you need, but you're not getting rid of me that easily.
That made me smile.
My response: Thanks for understanding. And hey, starting uni in two weeks is going to be a lot. I'm already trying to mentally prepare.
Enzo: I remember you mentioning that! You're going to crush it. But listen, just because you're recovering doesn't mean we can't spend time together. How about this: instead of going out, I can come over and cook for you? It'll be low-key, just us, and I swear I'd be in heaven just being around you.
Wait—he cooks? This guy just keeps surprising me.
Me: You can cook? I thought rockstars lived on takeout and room service.
