Memories of William

First Memory

A winding path stretches through dense woods before me.

I know what lies ahead, though I choose not to think of it. Various types of trees form an ark above me as I walk, their branches twisting and turning.

The pebbles beneath my feet crunch as I take heavy steps thinking of you. As I reach the black metal gate, flashes of memories sweep through my mind, making me smile to myself.

I remember the first day I met you.

"Can I help you with anything, Miss?" you ask from nearby.

Walls, covered with shelves covered with books, surround me, my nose deep in a classic story about two enemies finding love.

The voice startles me and pulls me out of the scene pictured in my head.

I look up from The Willow Tree and see you standing a few feet away. At first, I didn't know what to say because you were the most beautiful thing I could have ever seen. Then, my mind takes control of my voice and I squeak, "No, I'm alright. Thank you, though."

"Alright then. You have a nice day." you say kindly. You walk away and I look at you until you round the corner of the shelf.

And I thought to myself, 'That was embarassing.'

I shake my head to clear my thoughts and continue with the love story.

Ten minutes later I get up from the chair and make my way towards the register while looking down.

I reach the register and look up to see a woman. Her name tag read, 'Regina'

"Is that all ma'am?" she asks me.

"Yes." I reply. The woman turns around to get a plastic bag with the bookstore title on it. There is a small break room off to the side.

Even though I don't mean to, I glance into the room and see you standing there, turned around. A few chairs, a table, and a coffee maker with various snacks occupy the room besides three other people. My breath catches and my heart stops. The woman turns back around and I can focus my gaze upon her. She takes my book and gently slides it into the green bag.

"There you go. Have a wonderful day!" she says cheerily.

"You too." I say. I turn, about to leave when I notice you not in the break room anymore.

There is a gentle tap on my shoulder. When I turn around, confused as to who would want to speak with me, I see you standing there with a grin on your face.

"Hi. I'm William. What's your name?"

I push through the metal gate and continue my journey.