But the pull to sit down on a bench nagged at me again so before I proceeded towards the bench, I checked first if she had company. When I was sure she was alone, I moved closer and stood in front of her.

“Excuse me miss, but would it be alright if I sit beside you? I’m sorry for disturbing you.” I asked politely. I was about to add more but was cut short when a pair of the loveliest eyes that were of the deepest browns look up at me with surprise and curiosity. She blinked then lowered her scarf to reveal the most luscious lips I have ever seen. Recovering from her surprise, a beautiful shade of crimson painted her cheeks, and then she lowered her gaze shyly then smiled warmly then nodded at me.

I was so captured by her smile that I forgot to breathe. It was only when she blinked in confusion then patted the space beside her that I was brought back to reality.

I blinked then inhaled sharply and I felt my cheeks heat up, this was embarrassing!

“Oh! I’m sorry, I got… momentarily distracted, thank you, though.”

She smiled and nodded politely at me but I saw the corner of her lips play, stifling a giggle then she continued sketching.

I sat down beside her, looking the opposite direction from her as I close my eyes, cringe and chastise myself for my behavior.

Edward, you’re such an idiot! How can you lose your composure just like that? Maybe because of your beautiful seatmate…

Ugh. I sighed but my eyes remained closed as I took in the crisp chilly air. All I could hear was the remaining leaves rustling then falling and the sketching beside me.

Then, another urge crept.

No! Edward! It’s rude to stare!

But I wanted another peek at her. So against my better judgment, I glanced discreetly at me seatmate.

And again I was breathless. Even bundled up, she was the most breathtaking creature I have ever seen now that I can see her up close. She had creamy ivory skin that contrasted beautifully with her dark brown locks but most of all, it contrasted well with her eyes that were the color of deep chocolate, so deep that I could drown in those pools. She was very focused on her sketch that I couldn’t help but stare at her slightly open mouth… those beautiful lips… so pink… full… set in that heart shaped face of hers…