Catherine froze at the sound of the voice right behind her. She never thought she’d hear that voice ever again. Well, not ever, Catherine amended slightly. But not this soon. She left their old group some months ago because she didn’t agree with their ideals. She was only starting her own outreach program, and she was delighted with the results she was getting. Much more than what was happening with them, anyway. She knew that they were good people, really, but she didn’t believe in what they were doing, especially all the shady stuff that’s happening in the background. She wasn’t stupid, after all, and she knew what her principles were, what she was fighting for. She didn’t have the heart to confront her friends though, so instead of duking it out, she simply left.

Her face must have reflected her thoughts, because she heard someone say, “What, do I have dirt on my face or something?”

She forced a smile on her face. “Adam! It’s great seeing you again! Fancy meeting you here. Who would’ve thought I’d run into you in the public library? What a coincidence.”

“Coincidence? Haha! More like me remembering that you love being around dusty books!” Adam said teasingly, while searching her face. Catherine felt herself blushing. She felt no regret leaving the group, but the one thing that made her pause at that time was him. Their casual flirting and bantering brightened up her day, and there were times that she thought they could go one step further. And then she left. On her last day, she said goodbye to everyone, but not to him. It was too much, and she didn’t even know where to begin, so she opted to leave without saying anything to him.

He didn’t seem to hold that against her, though. He stood there, grinning broadly, as though nothing bad happened between them. It’s just like him, to always be positive. “How ya doing, Kitty?” He said cheerfully. He was the only one who called her that. Heck, he was the only one who gave her by a pet name, everyone else called her Catherine. “Can we go outside for a minute? The mustiness is enough to make me dizzy.” Not trusting her voice, she merely nodded and walked with him.

What do I say to him? She thought wildly. Sorry for leaving? I’m not sorry! I know that it was the best thing to do! Sorry not saying goodbye? Oh heck, that sounds stupid!

When they reached a stone bench, Adam turned to face her.

“Adam, I…”

“I’m proud of you,” he said softly, “and I’m glad you stood up for what you believe in.” And in so saying, he kissed her.

—

Here’s a Lite based on a dream I had last night. Hope you like it!^_^