My Strawberry Boy

For several, several months now, I have had a crush on this guy that works out at my gym.  It's taken me probably almost a year to even muster the courage to look him in the eye.  I haven't any idea why I admire him so, but I do...from a distance.

Yesterday, I hopped on the treadmill next to his.  I finished running before he did, and when I climbed off the treadmill, I noticed an iPod and earphones laying on the ground next to my feet.  I looked around at all the people on the treadmills.  Then I walked off to get a disinfectant wipe (to clean my machine), and when I came back, I stared at the iPod again, completely puzzled.  I looked up and around, and it dawned on me that Strawberry Boy didn't have his usual earphones in his ears.

I picked up the iPod and looked up at him.  He then turned around when I asked, "Is this yours?"  He nodded and said yes. 

When I handed his iPod to him, he smiled and said, "Thank you very much." 

And just like that, my mind went completely blank.  Yep, a simple "you're welcome" would have sufficed, but even my manners escaped with my every fleeting thought.  I think I managed to utter an "uh-huh" before I turned around to let him finish his running.  Completely embarrassed, I'd never been so thankful that I don't have the capability to blush.. otherwise I would be as red as my Strawberry Boy.

The very first four words he's ever spoken to me... ah, this is a moment in history.  My safe crush spoke to me, and my mind went blank.  This is the first time any guy has ever had that effect on me.  It's almost appalling... the man makes me stupid, and he doesn't even have to try.  (Yes, I do mean stupid.  My brain doesn't work around him.)

- That One Girl