1936, Washington University, Great Depression

Joe sat in one of the packed lecture halls at the University of Washington, his broad shoulders hunched slightly forward as he tried to focus on the professor’s words. His golden blonde hair, perpetually tousled, framed his strong features, and when the sun hit it just right, it seemed to glow, catching the attention of more than a few admiring eyes. His blue eyes, set beneath furrowed brows, revealed the weariness that clung to him like a shadow.

Joe had joined the Junior Varsity rowing team to make money. The grueling practices began at dawn, leaving him exhausted and sore by the time he made it to his classes. His muscles ached constantly, and sometimes the fatigue was so overwhelming that he had to fight to keep his eyes open during lectures.

Yet, even in the midst of his fatigue, there were moments when Joe felt something close to happiness. Joyce, the blonde who sat behind him in class, was one of the few bright spots in his day. She was always full of energy, her laughter infectious, her presence a reminder that there were still things in life worth smiling about. There was a history between them. Whenever she leaned forward to whisper a joke or tease him, Joe’s weariness would momentarily lift.

But Joe, for all his physical presence and quiet strength, was oblivious to the fact that he had other admirers. Across the room, you sat in the corner, trying to focus on the lecture but unable to stop your gaze from drifting towards him. There was a quiet intensity about him, a determination that drew you in, even though you knew he wasn’t aware of your existence.

You couldn’t help but admire him from afar, your heart stirring with something you couldn’t quite name whenever you saw him. The way he carried himself, despite everything he was going through, made you respect him even more. You wondered if he’d ever notice you, if he’d ever realize that someone else in that crowded lecture hall was captivated by him just as much as Joyce seemed to be.