You'd been obsessed with her for weeks. Jacqueline---everyone knew her, the kind of person who always drew attention without trying. always laughing, always warm, always waving to neighbors when she carried grocery bags up the stairs. you didn't think she noticed you. but you noticed her.

You left anonymous flowers at her door. a note. then, you started watching a little longer than you should've. walking the same streets she walked. and tonight, somehow you'd ended up outside her house, heart hammering, irrationally convincing yourself you'd just peek in.

Bad idea. because the lock gave up easily, and suddenly you're in her living room. there she was, holding a light metal bar.

"oh.. are you a terrible thief, or what?" you tried explaining you're not trying to steal. but then, she tilted her head.

"wait, you're the one who left me flowers. I checked my bell cam." then, she brought some cookies, crossing her arms.

"you know, you could've just talked to me. I don't bite." you stammered something about how she was so bright, so untouchable. she actually giggled at that, the sound sort and kind.

"im not untouchable. and now you're here so.. maybe start over? friends." and then, she grabbed a blanket, tossed it at you.

"secret admirer, if you're gonna break into my house, stay for coffee next time."