Chapters & Pages [A POLIN ff]

lovestruck, happy, giddy, dazed

But there she was, already up, her gold dress draped over her arm—a shimmering reminder of their night together. She moved quietly, collecting stray pieces of clothing and tossing them into her hamper, her red hair a little wild and her cheeks still flushed from sleep.

You've been talking...

You know I cherish our time...

Wanna hear your voice for life...

She glanced at him from where he lay, her lips curving into a soft smile that sent a thrill straight through him. That smile was Penelope's alone—mischievous, knowing, and it made his heart skip. She shook her head a little, then turned and slipped away into the bathroom. Left alone with his thoughts, Colin found his mind drifting, every thought painting her more vividly.

Don't know what you're saying...

Hoping I don't look dumb at all...

I'm just happy being lost within your-

When Penelope reappeared, wrapped in a towel with her hair tousled and damp, Colin felt his breath catch. Her cheeks were flushed, and small water droplets clung to her neck and shoulders, catching the morning light in a way that seemed almost unreal. Her head turned to him again, and in that instant, he felt as though he'd been struck by something entirely new. He knew he could watch her like this forever.

I love falling deep in your eyes...

Can't stop staring at you!

Pretty Eyes, Pretty Eyes...

Oblivious of the beauty that she has!

He hoped he didn't look foolish, but he couldn't help it—he was simply lost in the sight of her. The air felt electric, yet she was blissfully unaware of the effect she had over him. As she walked toward her dresser, she pulled out a soft pink sweater and a vibrant yellow shirt, then looking at him with a playful question in her eyes, as if seeking his opinion on what to wear. Colin didn't register a word she said; he just nodded, merely entranced. Penelope laughed lightly, shaking her head at his dazed expression, and slipped into her yellow top, followed by a pair of denim shorts.

I'm sorry but I didn't hear what you said

Oh, that charm that you possess!

Pretty Eyes, Pretty Eyes

Strucken inlove, by your eyes!

Colin was fixed by the graceful curve of her neck, her bosom, the way her hips perfectly hugged her shorts, and the delicate motion of her lips as she applied a touch of balm. With a playful smile, she brushed out her hair, securing it into a loose half ponytail, effortlessly enchanting him even more. She was perfection, standing there. Colin knew he should say something—anything—but he was speechless. No words seem to be enough.

You know I'm not one to even talk, babe

I wasn't ignoring

I'm just infatuated

I've been telling you all this time

Finally, Penelope finished getting ready and crossed the room toward where he sat on her mattress, raising an eyebrow at his silence. He was dimly aware that she had called his name twice, but he was lost in the blissful sensation that washed over him each time she said, "Colin". The mere sound sent goosebumps racing across his skin. She spoke to him again, her words lighthearted and teasing, but he still hadn't caught a single syllable. Instead, he reached out, brushing his fingers gently along her wrist, seeking to ground himself in this surreal, dreamlike morning.