Victoria, wait up. The girl turned to the familiar voice behind her. She already knew Thomas would be standing at the front gate again.
You again? Havent you had enough of this? Youve been here for ages! Victoria exclaimed, annoyed. Thomas awkwardly held out a bunch of daffodils.
I just wanted to see you.
Victoria took the flowers reluctantly, letting out a long sigh.
What on earth am I to do with you? she muttered. You must see by nownothings ever going to happen between us! she snapped. I say it again and again; youre like a child.
I cant help it, maybe itll pass one day, Thomas replied quietly.
Itll never pass while you keep following me about. Ive said it a hundred times! You mean nothing to me!
Dont be cross now, love, it doesnt suit you. Sweet dreams, Thomas said with sad humour.
And I am NOT your girlfriend! Victoria yelled after him.
Thomas had fallen for Victoria the very day shed joined their school, back in Year Seven. Since then, theyd always shared a desk. The girl had liked Thomas, too, and theyd been inseparable throughout school. But now, since school had ended, Victoria had changed. She no longer imagined Thomas by her side.
How had this come about? Thomas wondered. Hed seen Victoria walking home with other boys, and it wrenched his heart to watch her. At such times, he swore he wouldnt chase after her ever again. But each new evening, his legs seemed to find their way on their own to Victorias door.
Victoria had learned by now that Thomas would always be waiting on the bench by her front gate. She hoped one day, if she walked by with another boy, hed finally give up.
Why are you out here every night? Waiting for someone?
Thomas glanced up and saw the girl standing there. He immediately noticed her bright red hair and the freckles that seemed made just for her. When she smiled, she looked truly delightful. A russet spaniel trotted beside her, matching her hair. Thomas thought she looked mischievousa cheeky girl with a cheeky dog. Smiling, he replied:
Im just waiting for happiness. But it never seems to arrive.
Maybe youre looking in the wrong place, she remarked. Perhaps you ought to get up and go searching for it? Charlie and I walk here every day. Want to join us? The three of us can try our luck.
Thomas glanced towards Victorias window but then stood and spoke with resolve:
You know, I think I will.
Victoria was quite taken aback. For once, she came down and didnt find Thomas waiting for her on the bench. She slowed her steps, scanning the familiar spot, but it was empty. She sat on the cold wood, feeling strangely at a loss.
Then, the distant sound of a barking dog caught her attention. Looking up, she spotted two distant figures. From afar, she recognised Thomas and a girl. Jealousy flickered inside herit was the first time Thomas hadnt been there for her. A kind of emptiness grew in her chest, while that stranger walked further away with him.
And so, Victoria learned a difficult truth: sometimes, what you take for granted might slip through your fingers, and only absence can show us the true value of someones presence.
