Something Like... Love?

"I love the distance that we have between us, because that gives me reason to come close to you." He closed the distance between us and leaned in, gently brushing his lips with mine. I didn't react. I was rooted to the ground. I hadn't expected this.

Never in my life had I thought about this.

"I love you, Kiera Bennet," he said, hovering over my lips, so that our shallow breathing merged with each other.

I shook my head defiantly as tears started spilling through my eyes.

"I know you think we can't be together, but can't you respect me enough to let me make my own decision? I need you, Kiera. And I won't give up on us..." He leaned back without breaking his intense gaze on my face. "You love me too and you know it. I will be always there, waiting for you, Kiera." He kissed my forehead, before leaving my room.

Why was this happening to me? I didn't want this. No, I couldn't allow myself to feel this. What were these feelings that I felt for him? Why did I feel this as, as something like... love?

We all want to fall in love, because that experience makes us feel completely alive. Where every sense is heightened, every emotion is magnified, our everyday reality is shattered and we are flying into the heavens. Then why is Kiera so scared of falling in love?