_ in this moment _

I always imagined we’d meet at one of those places that serves coffee during the day and transforms into a bar at night.

I’d wait for you at the front door, cupping my cell phone, wondering if you got my message about our meeting place

I’d smile so big when I finally see you and everything would slow down

The traffic lights

The people coming and going

The slight kick of wind

All of it would succumb to the speed of walking through water and trying to tough through a rapid current

I’d swing my arms out for a hug because my hands would be too sweaty to shake your’s

We’d nestle in each other, taking a moment to appreciate the threads on one another’s back

I’d buy us a couple drinks and make my way over to the table you found for us outside

I’d stare into your eyes and find it hard to imagine anything more breathtaking

They would look greener than I remember

My mouth would still move, but my mind would be lost in the landscapes of your round face

I’d see an eyelash on your cheek and try to help you get it by miming it out on myself

Like someone trying to tell another where the glob of mustard is by their lips without using a mirror

When we became unsuccessful, I’d use the opportunity as a chance to reach out and gracefully lift the eyelash from your precious cheek,

Holding it out, you’d look like a child in front of her candle-lit birthday cake

I’d be the kid next to you, waiting for you to make a wish

Hoping your wish was practical, but also wondering if it had anything to do with me

We’d share about our travels

Our relationships, or lack thereof

The things we do for ourselves to make our lives happy

It would all feel like putting on a sweatshirt you thought you lost in the closet, and realizing that it still fits so well

We’d briefly talk about the past, but mainly focus on what’s ahead

We’d talk about how we’ve changed and grown and found something out about ourselves that we didn’t know we knew before

I’d ask when we could see each other again

You’d casually throw the ball back in my court and say something like “You tell me…”

And you wouldn’t invite me over to your place right away

But later, down the line, when you’re ready to introduce me to your friends, you’d take me to a party hosted by one of them

The party would be casual, but the looks your friends would give me tell me I’ll be tested tonight

Like a surprise pop quiz

At some point, we’d find ourselves on opposite ends of the apartment and then

In that moment

We’d smile

I’d nod my head at you

You’d blush

And we’d realize that this is exactly where we want to be.