The Hollow Sting of Realization

Joanne took a step forward, closing the space between them. Her heart pounded against her ribs, a frantic drumbeat of uncertainty and courage warring within her.

She had never been this bold before. Never been the one to take the lead, to lay herself bare like this. Vulnerability was foreign to her, terrifying and raw.

But how could she fall in love if she never reached for it?

Her breath caught as she took another step.

Jonathan's blue eyes locked onto hers, and she saw the exact moment he realized what she was doing. His lips parted slightly, surprise flickering across his face, but he didn't move forward.

He didn't step back, either.

Joanne's stomach tightened.

Was he waiting for her? Was he unsure?

She tilted her chin up, the distance between them vanishing to a whisper. But as she searched his gaze, her boldness wavered.

There was no heat. No anticipation.