Short Stories

The Willow

* Original FLF

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"If I'm still in this forest by nightfall, I'll never leave it again."

"Oh come on Emily, quit being dramatic."

"No seriously. I will get lost and some animal will come and eat me!"

"Stop complaining and help me look for it."

"What exactly are we looking for?"

"..."

"LEXI!"

"What?!"

" Answer me."

"Nothing."

"Then why in the world are we in this forest right before nightfall?"

"I can't tell you."

"Bull," I said as I stopped walking and folded my arms over my chest.

"Well, I guess we are almost there."

"Almost where?"

"Turn around."

"Lexi."

"Turn around!"

"Fine."

I saw a piece of cloth cover my eyes and then I saw black.

"Lexi!" I replied desperately.

"I'm still here. Just carefully walk with me."

"What if I run into a tree?"

"I'll lead the way."

After several minutes of trying not to trip on anything, I finally heard Lexi stop.

"We're here!"

I took off my blindfold and there were all of my friends standing in front of me.

"SURPRISE!" they all yelled.

I looked all around, taking in all of the decorations and preps and in the middle of it all, there was a willow tree.

"Happy Birthday Emily!"

"Lexi, did you do all of this?"

"Well, I had a little help. Now go enjoy the party!"

I started wandering around and I ended up next to the willow tree. I climbed up and sat on the branches, watching the sunset. I was so focused I didn't hear John climb up next to me.

"Beautiful isn't it?"

"I love it."

"Yeah, but nothing's as beautiful as you."

"Thanks," I replied blushing.

"You're so cute when you blush."

I turned even redder. We both sat in silence, looking up at the setting sun. That's when he looked at me. Before I could do anything he leaned forward and kissed me. I found myself kissing him back and too soon it was over and he pulled away.