Being Next to You

Chapter 1: First Confession

The weather is nice like always; the sun is out as I walk my way to the library for my shift today.

Besides being a temporary librarian on weekends, books are my favorite part.

And my mystery sleeping person, dozing in my favorite spot, Julian Bridge.

After time after time, I often see him in the library; specifically in the literature section. He seems to be interested towards poetry and English literature.

I sometimes gaze at him without thinking, wondering what book will he read today-- at the front desk.

"Excuse me, I would like to borrow this book."

And Julian Bridge came out of nowhere; standing in front of me, holding a book.

"Yes..," I answered as I took the book and his library card. "Please wait a moment..."

I can't look at him directly, I was too nervous... And the silence between us made me more nervous-- since nobody goes to the library nowadays, the emptiness of the room made his presence even bigger.

"Excuse me..." He called out of the blue.

"Yes?" I answered.

"There's a mark on your left cheek, " he added while his both hands are in his pockets.

I was startled and he made my heart skip a beat. When he leaned towards me and rubbed the mark of my cheek.

"Thank... you..," I said as I felt my face burned.

"You're welcome," he replied while putting his hands back in his pockets.

After that...

I gave him the book he borrowed and he left the library. Just like everyone who visits the library.

That's how it all ends. We never had a chance to say a word to each other. Even at school, we bumped into each other a few times, but we never said a single word to each other; neither a "Hi" nor "Hello."

What should I expect, we are strangers after all.

I attend the same school as Julian Bridge. We're both in the same year, but different classes. I also have responsibilities at school and school.

But after break and classes, I go to the library.

I like going to the library. It soothes me down.

I like how the books are arranged, the smell of books and the pleasant sounds of pages turning. It's like a soothing massage for my spirit. And I can be myself when I'm at the library. I can concentrate and be absorbed by books.

And I see him again.

Nothing changes in our relationship.

But, I am satisfied.

Looking from afar is better. Since I don't have the courage to talk or even to approach him...

I've always admired his concentration when he starts reading.

Sometimes he "Smiles."
Sometimes he "Thinks."

And once in a while, he falls asleep when it's warm and no one is around in that same spot.

I rather think it's cute when he sleeps. His brown hair underneath his brown eyes. A soft, pleasant sound coming from his breathing and a slight pinch of Orange Blossoms around him.