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It was a simple mistake on Jess’ part. When Crystal’s eyes had begun to droop – her spunky voice and attitude fading in the background as she transformed into a sleepy version of herself – Jess knew they should’ve gotten as far away from her as possible.
But now, they were trapped beneath a thick layer of blankets and the vice grip that Crystal held them in. Her skin was soft, breath blowing gently against Jess’ neck, leaving a trail of goosebumps behind. Crystal always had that effect on them; a simple touch or glance from her was enough to cause Jess to take pause, then struggle to catch up with the curveball that had been thrown at them. Did her gaze mean anything? Was she touching my arm for a bit too long, or was that in my head?
Through the blinds of Jess’ window, early rays of sunlight crept in. The air hung heavy around them, remnants of Crystal’s perfume wafting throughout. It was during these early hours that Jess always found it most difficult to resist their ruminating. Even with Crystal here, their anxieties had refused to alleviate – in fact, her presence seemed to only make these thoughts of theirs stronger.
Jess often wondered why Crystal ever entered their life. They wouldn’t consider themselves religious by any means – spiritual, maybe, though even that was pushing it – but there was no denying Jess’ belief that Crystal entered their life for a reason. They often wondered if Crystal knew they felt this way; maybe this was one of those unspoken feelings they both shared, but maybe, just maybe, it was all a delusion that Jess conjured up in their head.
Crystal shifted in her sleep. Her nose rubbed against the side of Jess’ neck.
It was bizarre to imagine that Crystal lived a life before them. Often, when they could steal a glance, Jess would analyze her features. In their eyes, she was beautiful, perfectly made up of features and quirks that were present long before their worlds collided. Somewhere out there, maybe there was a god who had orchestrated this whole scenario, but Jess couldn’t trust it.
Out of all the people on this island, why would Crystal choose them?
If Jess were a stronger person, they would’ve leaned over and pet Crystal’s hair, whispered nice things to her, given her a kiss on the forehead – anything.
Instead, they lay, still and unmoving.