Surely, someone describing himself as the Big Bad Wolf in search of Red Riding Hood has much to hide and can only be trouble! Best to steer clear. No problem, I'm a pro at avoidance. Besides, he is on the other side of the world.
A comment here, a chat there. Then I am a one hour flight away, at least for two months. More chats. Hints of intelligence, depth, a few shared interests, and suddenly, I'm on that one hour flight. I have a name and one photograph. No backup plan. Not doing well at steering clear. What am I doing?!?
You are taller than I imagined! The lump in my throat restricts my breathing. I change my mind. You haven't seen me and are facing the other way. I can still turn tail. My mouth betrays my escape and says hello before my brain can stop it.
Now it's too late. I am locked in for the weekend. Two weeks later, I lock myself in for another weekend. The events are a blur, but I see you with clarity. Clear, expressive, eyes that are kind one minute, and mischievous the next. A somewhat serious set to your mouth that softens when we are alone. The dimples that form as you laugh when you try to teach me to say "ich spreiche" and I fail miserably.
I return home reluctant to give up the happiness that has evaded me for so many years so soon. Plans to move halfway around the world take shape. They had been in the works before, but now they are much more appealing. Except they won't bear fruit for at least five months. A short visit at the four month mark provides some consolation.
Until then, you are again on the other side of the globe. I wonder whether I will be enough reason for you to end your search... and hope someone else won't in the meantime.
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