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A girl sits alone at a desk, surrounded by papers and quotes, contemplating the changes in her life. She sees a tall young boy in her mind’s eye, sleeping quietly in his bed. She remembers the day he first held her hand. She hadn’t felt the thrill she expected. Instead, she felt a sense of contentment and belonging. She remembers when he first took his arm and slipped it around her waist, drawing her close so their noses touched.

She thinks of the days he walked beside her as she complained about her troubles. He never once yelled, never once showed annoyance. She remembered how he held her tight so many times, saying he couldn’t be more grateful for God’s making of this friendship.

Two friends walk side by side, content to talk and to be silent. One slips her hand in his, lacing her fingers through his. He holds it tight. In a moment of serene silence, she turns to look at him with eyes of perfect contentment. He smiles back, gazing deep into her eyes—nothing has to be said. She can’t tear her eyes away as his own caress her face. Now words are needed.

They stop, and time pauses. Each is silent; each is thankful. Each cherishes the moment; each relishes every second. The boy pulls her close and holds her as if afraid to let go. She sinks into his embrace. Together they give thanks for every precious minute they receive together.

Friends, and lovers? No, friends, but not lovers, they claim to be. They mock the immaturity and foolishness of very young lovers. They simply content themselves with the beauty of a God-given friendship.

Yet, they hold each other, unwilling to let go. Each is afraid of another’s hands taking the other’s away. They comfort themselves in each other’s love, never wanting to replace each other. They have no desire to be lovers, they claim. Yet, they don’t want to lose each other. They hold hands, afraid to let go. He holds her in his arms, refusing to let go. He stares softly into her eyes as he caresses her face with his hand, telling her he loves her. She reaches up to stroke his cheek, wondering how she could ever bear to part with him.

Two friends walk side by side, one with his arm around the other. They share in their silent joy. Two friends share one journey. Yet, for how long? For neither wishes to admit the one wish they share: to always share that journey.

Two friends walk as friends by choice. But deep down, are they walking only as friends?

Two friends face each other with eyes full of genuine love and care. They smile with contentment. They feel grateful to share this stage of their journeys together and are hopeful for their journeys to become one.

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