A Million Miles Away(67)

“And you did,” Kelsey said.

“I kept your letters,” he said, speaking quickly, nervously.

A tight smile grew on Kelsey’s face. “I dug yours out of the trash.”

“Well, thank you,” he said. “For doing that.”

“They smell like mustard now,” she let out.

He laughed loudly, surprising both of them. His eyes met hers, and then their gazes couldn’t unstick.

They didn’t speak for a while, considering each other. Music began to play from inside the house, some sort of piano. A warm gust blew around them.

“What do you think?” he asked. “Want to start over?”

Kelsey’s eyes stung for some reason, though all she felt was relief. Everything was clear, even the tears through which she saw him.

“Sure,” she said, as casual as could be.

“Hi, I’m Peter.” And he smiled his smile, holding out his hand.

“Hi, Peter,” she said, and she took it. “I’m Kelsey.”