She smiled sweetly, her fingers brushing mine, and my breath caught, heart swelled.

But the smile was mere politeness, the contact accidental as she held the door open and I moved to take it. She didn’t know who I was, didn’t know I loved her, would never, ever know.

“…Thanks.”

Maria is inspired by everyday events, and odd coincidences. She’s excited for the time she’s able to high-five people again.