Love Stories
You + Me at a Distance
Chapter 1
Late-night talks on the dorm room couch.
Tomorrow’s assignments may or may not be completed, but that’s a worry for a different moment. Right now, we’re eating Pop-Tarts and laughing in a way neither of us have done in a long while.
Me and you are so new, and I don’t want it to be disturbed by any outside eyes, opinions, or thoughts. These are the best moments my college experience has offered me. We’ve shared this small campus together for four years and like professional procrastinators, you and I wait until the last three months to occupy each other’s space.
After graduation, we’ll be back in our own home states. You want to ask, but you’re unsure . I want to ask, but I’m skeptical. We both have proof that long-distance relationships don’t work easily. If no one brings it up, we can simply keep these nights going. I have enough Pop-Tarts.
Instead, you offer me the decision. You have a yes ready for me, I simply have to ask.
As one of our nights gets closer to midnight, my energy buzzes and I feel emboldened as you make me laugh for the hundredth time. Spring starts when the sun rises, and I think being happy with you this season might be fun…
“Do you want to go out with me?”
Chapter 2
I’ll see you on the other side of a six-hour train ride.
I found the seat I like, facing towards the front of the train, with the window to my right, halfway between both bathrooms on either end of the car, two cars behind the snack car. I got the direct trip to you, so I don’t have to pack everything up in 4½ hours just to sit back down on a different train for another 2 hours.
That’s it. Everyone’s onboard. The steps have been pulled in and the doors are locked close. There’s a stutter from the first car starting. Then we’re off. This sensation brings me peace, excitement, and nerves wrapped up in anticipation. The next 18 stops can’t go by fast enough.
I was here 4 months ago. The same train service. The same day of the week. The same feelings in my heart. A different video ready to play on my laptop to pass the time.
Trading 12-hours on the train for 34-hours with you. Ready to jump high into your arms when you pick me up at the station and never ready for the tearfilled hug as you see me off at the end of the weekend.
We found this thing that feels truer than anything we’ve tried before. It’s worth the trip. It’s worth the time. I can’t wait to see you again.
Chapter 3
I’ll make this your best birthday ever!
I hope you’re not getting suspicious. I’m not great at keeping things from you. I’ve almost told you three times now. But I only need to keep it together for another two hours. We’ll get to the venue and your sisters will take the lead in making sure you’re having fun and distracted from my nerves.
I’ve held this ring box in my hand everyday for three weeks. Practicing my proposal word for word. Rehearsing how I’ll take your hand and bend down on one knee. The box has to be in the correct pocket. I’ve run through three different scenarios. It may not go perfectly, but I’ll be as prepared as possible.
I want to see that surprised look on your face. You’ll probably cry. I’ll most likely cry.
This is it.
Everything is in place.
You’re in my arms.
Looking up at me.
Now’s the time.
Will you marry me?
Chapter 4
Eight Years, a Pandemic, and an aisle
This is our day.
I’m getting ready to walk through the doors and down the aisle, and all I can think of is the distance.
That long distance was not easy, to put it simply.
Going long months without seeing each other.
Having to fit everything into weekends that were never long enough.
Then the Pandemic settled in.
Old pros at keeping apart.
But those highs and lows brought us here.
Now we get to say, “I do.”
We get to share a space.
We get to take our time.
We get to do nothing together.
We get to do anything together.
We get to be us, together.
I’ll try not to run down the aisle so we can get there faster.
We deserve to take our time to celebrate every year and mile.
This is going to be good.
I love you!
byLadyBug 