Zion

He was known in school as one of the star players of the soccer team, but unlike most athletes, he carried himself with humility and kindness. He wasn’t arrogant, and he treated everyone with respect, especially the girls. His friends often teased him, pushing him to find a girlfriend, insisting that someone as popular as him shouldn’t be single. They tried to set him up with the most admired girls in school, yet he declined every offer. His heart had already chosen someone far from the spotlight—a girl who seemed to belong to a different world. Her name was hers alone, but her presence was unforgettable. Long, red hair fell around her shoulders in loose braids, freckles danced across her cheeks, and her striking blue eyes seemed to see everything yet reveal little. She dressed elegantly, simply, and carried herself with a quiet confidence that drew people in without effort. One afternoon, he found her in the library, her nose buried in a book. Nervously, he approached, asking for help with his studies—but really, he wanted a chance to speak with her. Their conversations started small, discussing homework and assignments, but over time, their study sessions became the highlight of his days. Eventually, his feelings could no longer be contained. One day, he asked her gently, his voice hesitant, if she would be his girlfriend. She smiled softly but refused, explaining that she didn’t want the attention or gossip of the entire school on them. Her words stung, and he left, heart heavy, but he understood. Weeks later, during an afternoon practice, she appeared at the edge of the field. Nervously, he approached. She looked down, then whispered an apology for turning him down before. He nodded, accepting it, but something in her expression made his heart race. As she stepped closer, the sunlight catching her hair, he felt a sudden pull, his breath catching in his throat. For the first time, it seemed the space between them might finally close.