Even in the predawn hours, the house was abuzz with campaign activities. Volunteers hustled, coffee cups cluttered tables, and campaign materials filled the outside yard. Penelope, seizing a moment of calm amidst the chaos, she carefully made her way towards the back door.
As Penelope silently turned the doorknob and go out into the still dim early morning, she heard a familiar voice that jolted her from her thoughts.
"I'll accompany you." Joel's voice stopped her in her tracks.
Startled, she spun around to find Joel standing behind her. A smile formed on her lips, but it froze in place when she saw him. Her heart skipped a beat, leaving her breathless for a moment.
Given the hour, Penelope was surprised to see Joel awake already. He absentmindedly ran his fingers through his thick, damp hair the color of ebony as droplets of water clung to the dark locks, indicating he had just taken an unexpected early shower. The air was infused with the spicy-sweet scent of his favorite masculine soap.
The fact that he was already dressed and ready at such an uncanny hour caused a wave of confusion to wash over Penelope, mixing with the usual sensations his presence provoked.
Dressed in simple white cotton shorts and a plain white t-shirt, Joel cut a striking figure in the dim predawn glow, his features carved in sharp relief against the shadows that still clung to the room. The warm morning light splashed across his tan skin, highlighting sharp cheekbones and striking hazel eyes that seemed to see right through her.
Given the unusual circumstances and her own tumult of feelings, Penelope mustered what courage she could to continue her interrupted smile, the edges of her lips trembling slightly. "Oh Joel, why are you up so early?" she asked, wishing her words did not escape in a higher pitched tone than usual.
Joel, seemingly unfazed, replied with a question of his own. "And where are you off to?" he inquired, though he already knew the answer.
"Well," Penelope began, her smile widening, "just a quick errand. But I'll be back soon. If not, feel free to call or text me. I wouldn't miss being there for Mama's campaign."
Joel's gaze remained fixed on her, his thoughts hidden behind his eyes. Had he been like this in the past few days, weeks, or months? It was difficult to decipher what he was truly thinking.
Then, Joel took a deep breath. "I will accompany you," he repeated, taking the lead and heading towards one of the parked cars in their yard. Opening the driver's side door, he motioned for Penelope to join him.
With a gentle smile, Penelope took a step towards the vehicle, her heart racing with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty.
**********
Penelope placed the bouquet of flowers they had bought on the way to the grave. Silently, she stared at the words engraved on the headstone.
In Loving Memories of
Lila C. Flores
Born: May 9, 1978
Died: August 01, 2012
Eleven years had passed, yet the weight of the loss remained. Penelope tried to immerse herself in the surroundings, searching for the right emotions. Should she cry? Should she feel a profound sadness? But strangely, she felt nothing. Was that okay?
Suddenly, Joel's presence made itself known as he tapped her shoulder. Startled, she turned to face him.
"She must be proud of you," Joel said, his gaze fixed on what had captured her attention.
Surprised by his comment, Penelope asked, "Why do you say that?"
His mischievous smile faded, replaced by a sincere expression. "Well, you're in college now, right? Who would have thought you'd make it?" he teased, a hint of pride in his voice.
Indignantly, Penelope retorted, "What do you think of me? I don't need your help with assignments and projects anymore."
Joel's smirk vanished, replaced by a genuine smile. "Exactly," he said softly, looking into her eyes. "That's why I know she would be proud of you. And I'm proud of you too."
Penelope held her breath, captivated by his smile. Confusion swirled within her. What was happening? Was she losing her mind?
Before she could gather her thoughts, Joel playfully pinched her left cheek, causing her to yelp in pain.
"Ouch!" she exclaimed, swatting his hand away.
Chuckling, Joel apologized, his laughter infectious. "Sorry about that," he said, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
Rubbing her cheek, Penelope pouted. She wanted to be angry, to retaliate as she had done countless times before. She used to slap him or give him a playful punch whenever he teased her.
But now, something was different. His laughter held a new allure, drawing her in. It felt unfamiliar yet enticing, leaving her questioning her own feelings.
**********