Jab We Met

Angelina Kenny

Writer, Website

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The greenery called to me, flirtatiously swaying above the wall.

At first I’d resisted; I’d already wasted enough time, wandering in circles. But something nudged me forward. Creakkk. The metal gate squeaked in protest, as I stepped into the garden.

Ferns fanned out against vast trees; sunlight peeking through the gaps, lighting the cobblestone paths, dust motes swirling golden in the morning air.

I paused, capturing the noisy chirps of children in the play area, the thwack of a cricket ball hitting a bat and distant clubhouse cheers.

Then I moved forward, drawn by the circle in the garden’s centre.

A girl sat on one of the stone seats, quietly reading under the shade of a banyan tree. Hair cropped close in a boy-cut, dressed in a simple white shirt and pair of navy leggings. Head bowed, letting the dappled sunlight fall on her.

“Hello,” I said, walking closer.

“I’m Angelina.

What are you reading?”

The girl raised her head. Big, black eyes overwhelmed her lanky frame.

She squinted as the leaves swayed and the sun hit. Flickers of gold turning her eyes into a rich, dark brown.

She was quiet.

Steady gaze taking me in.

“It’s by Enid Blyton,” she responded softly.

“Good choice. I read The Cuckoo in the Clock when I was younger,” I smiled, remembering the copy Mama gifted me in third grade.

A small smile formed.

“I quite like it. It’s fun.”

Bunny teeth peeked through as she grinned.

“So what’s got you here?” I asked.

Lips thinning into a frown, the bunny teeth disappeared.

“It’s quiet, not that many people around. And the sun feels nice,” the girl responded.

I nodded in agreement. “You’ve chosen a good spot, mind if I join you?”

She paused, then nodded hesitantly. I sat, two seats away, sinking into the sun-warmed bench. Pulled out my book and began to write.

We sat peacefully, her reading and me writing. Until the sun grew harsh, morning’s cool breeze disappearing into an oppressive heat.

I stood up, and glanced around. All that lay around me was shimmering greenery and branching paths.

“Honestly, I’m a little lost. Not sure how to go forward from here.”

The girl hesitated, indecision flickering in her eyes until resolution took root.

“Come, I’ll show you the way,” she said, putting her hand out.

I took it, feeling her soft palm nestle against mine.

Unfamiliar, yet achingly familiar all at once.

Together, my younger self and I walked forward, marching into the blazing sun.