The Meetup (2)
1056 Words
The next morning, I convinced my parents to let me take my horse out for a ride before I had to leave for my aunts’ house in the weeks to come. I made sure to take a different trail so they wouldn’t suspect anything, and left to meet the intriguing stranger from the day before.
Luckily for me, he arrived first, so I wouldn’t have to worry about suspicious looks from townsfolk. I found myself practically running towards him. “Hello.” I whispered.
“We meet again.”
“It seems so.” He gestured behind him and held out his hand. I took it with no hesitation, and he led me through stands and crowds of people making purchases. Finally, we made it out of the marketplace. We now stood in a beautiful field of poppies and lillies. “This place is beautiful!”
“I know, right? It was voted the best field in town.” I laughed. “Come this way.” He said, pulling me along behind him. We walked for only a couple minutes, and made our way to a clearing hidden by trees and crops. Underneath a very tall tree was a red and white blanket and a basket holding delicacies like cheese, bread, and berries. I gasped. Next to the blanket was an excellent horse, posing proudly. We sat on the blanket rather comfortably, and he asked, “How long are you in town?”
“Well, I live with my aunt who’s on the coast. I come here every month for the festivals and events the village holds. I also make purchases and buy souvenirs for my aunt to see.”
“Ah, so you visit often?”
“Yes.”
“May I ask your name?”
“My name is Lorelai.”
“What a beautiful name.” He sighed. I blushed profusely.
“What is your name, stranger? I know nothing of you.”
“My name is Lawrence.”
“I like it.”
“Thank you.” He cleared his throat. “Lorelai, when do you leave town?”
“Next week. But I’ll return the first week of next month.” I assured him. “So, how do you earn your four pieces everyday?” He grinned.
“My family owns a bookstore. I get some of my payment working there, but I’m an apprentice for the carpenter in town. I’m able to do more with my life, and earn more money for my family.”
“Wow.” So, that's why he is so strong. “Do you have any siblings?”
“Yeah, I have two younger sisters I have to look out for. My father is remarried because my mother died years ago.”
“Oh, I’m so sorry.”
“It’s alright. I didn’t really get to know her because I was so young.” He was able to change the subject quickly by asking, “Do you have any siblings?”
“Yeah, I have two older brothers. They don’t really talk to me, though. Then it is just my mom and dad. We used to own a farm until we moved.”
“Fascinating.” My cheeks reddened and I smiled at this amazing stranger.
We talked for hours about family, hobbies, and favorite foods. I didn’t realize I was late getting home until the sun went down. I gasped. “Oh no!” I began gathering my stuff.
“What’s wrong?” Lawrence asked.
“I need to get home. I’m sorry, I must’ve lost track of time!”
I stood up, readying myself for the terrible journey home.
“I can’t let you travel home in the dark. Wolves come out this late.” He protested.
“I’ll be fine, Lawrence.” That was the first time I said his name aloud.
“Please, I insist.” He stood and helped me up. “Allow me to help you home, please.”
Reluctantly, I said, “Fine.” He smiled.
He helped me onto my horse, riding alongside me. We continued to talk on the ride home. Lawrence said, “Do you have family in town? Is that why you are in a rush?”
“It’s complicated. I suppose you could say I do have family in town, but I prefer my aunt. She is better towards me and actually appreciates my existence. My family in town see me as a burden, a disgrace. That’s why the first time you saw me around was only yesterday. I’m mostly hidden.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t realize - “
“It’s okay. It’s not your fault. You were a gentleman, and I couldn’t tell you the truth. I’m sorry.” My eyes watered. The first good day i’ve had in years was today, and I ruined it. We continued in silence until we came to a stop. “I think i’m good to continue on alone. The house is just up the road.” He helped me down and we bid our goodbyes. “Thank you for an amazing day. I don’t really get out much.”
“No problem.” I turned to go when he said, “Wait! Lorelai, can I write you?” knowing I was risking a lot, I wrote my aunt’s address on a slip of paper from his satchel.
“Lawrence, please wait to write until next week. I’ll try to contact you, okay?” I gave him a friendly hug and whispered, “Thank you for a perfect day.”
“You’re welcome.”
And with that, we parted ways. The Lawrence I once knew as a stranger was now a friend. And he was my secret I would cherish for a long time.
I boarded my horse and tip-toed inside the house, avoiding floor boards that creaked because of age. I swiftly ran up the stairs and successfully snuck into my bedroom.
- Writer
