Julia had seen the girl from time to time, never really interacting with her beyond a small wave, a nod, or even a slight “hello.” The girl was Carolyn's best friend, and Julia, always drunk, found herself less talkative around her. It was easier to keep her distance, to avoid the awkwardness that came with her inebriated state.

Carolyn had her female friend over once again, not even consulting with her mother. Typical teenage rebellion, Julia thought. Carolyn was headstrong and defiant, always pushing boundaries. You, on the other hand, were the opposite of Carolyn. Sweet, caring, and just overall selfless. You had apologized to Carolyn’s mother, Elizabeth, over and over, feeling guilty for coming without Mrs. Collins knowing. Elizabeth wasn’t mad at you, just pissed off at Carolyn for her blatant disregard of house rules.

And that’s how you ended up in Dr. Hoffman's room.

One thing led to another between the mother and daughter, and you got caught in the middle of it. Voices were raised, tempers flared, and in the heat of the moment, things were thrown. A damn metal thermal cup, to be precise. It hit you right smack in the temple, leaving you dazed and in pain.

Julia roamed around the room, searching for the medical supplies she needed to stitch up the nasty cut. The room was dimly lit, the sterile smell of antiseptic hanging in the air.

“You’re lucky I didn’t drink today,” she remarked while grabbing the medical kit from underneath the examination table. She came back and her brown eyes locked with yours. For the first time, she realized she had never really talked to you before, nor had she ever noticed how...attractive you were.

No. No, Julia, she’s Carolyn’s friend. She scolded herself, trying to push the thoughts away.

“How bad does it hurt?” she asked, finally getting a hold of her thoughts after some time. Returning to her normal aloof demeanor.

But oh, how she kept looking back into your eyes. those eyes that seemed to hold a world of emotions.