Work Text:
As you walk through the city at dusk, you find yourself staring into windows and envying silhouettes of couples, their frames outlined in golden light; their eyes and words exchange loving warmth towards one another. Your shoulders drop, demeanor slouching a bit as you watch their quiet exchanges, wishing you could be in their place with someone. You look back to where you’re walking, an autumn breeze shaking your clothing and leaving a nip at your nose. You watch the sidewalk for a moment, dazing slightly as you paint pictures of a man you haven’t met, a peaceful picture of them sitting across from you at one of those cozy little restaurants. Painting silly little pictures in your mind with colors you hadn’t touched in a long time; if truly ever.
Longing had a habit of creeping into your bones around this time of evening. A feeling you denied through your typical day, but found hard to resist when the hour of doting couples and perfect dates ticked around.
The gallery was sparse, per usual this time of day. You shuffled in quietly, careful not to disturb those who were present to view the art. You came here often, daily almost if your schedule allowed it. Your cheeks stung as you accustomed to the heat and you spent a few moments wandering around the painting and sculptures, eventually finding your feet taking you back to the object of your thoughts lately. A big painting, simple and abstract with just about every shade and feel of brown, earthy colors you could imagine. It was boring, you heard some of your friends say, it’s just brown, what could be so special?
A lot could, you’d tell yourself. Your head tilted ever slightly as you stared at it. Something comforting about the large display. You did just that, standing before it with eyes fixed on it, thoughts slowing down as you stared.
So caught up in your fixation, you hadn’t noticed there had been another admiring it. You turn to him, looking away for just a moment, “Hello.”
You smile, and he smiles back.
“Hello.”
You share a moment of silence, “you like it?”
He hums a yes, “something about it.”
“It’s just relaxing?”
“Yeah” he smiles and you’re glad to have found someone to share your feelings with. Not many people could.
You don’t share many words after, but instead share each other's presence, only adding to the odd mix of comfort and curiosity you felt viewing this piece.
Your nose scrunches with a sudden tinge of nostalgia burning in your chest as you think of him.
When you look back at him, it seems that he shares a familiar feeling.