I’ve always been mesmerized by her. I would look at her. And she would simply smile and I can’t turn away. Seeing her smile gave me the courage to say the words I feel. “I like you. I like you,” I repeated. Her smile deepens. “You must have known how I feel about you. I’ve been trying to work up the courage to tell you every single time I see you. It nearly comes out especially when you smile. I’m captivated by you. I’m entranced by you.” She reached out and gently took a hold of my hand. Looked at our hands. Looked at her. She was smiling. I was mesmerized by her. “I love you.” She gently squeezed my hand.  “I’ve always known. I was just waiting for you to tell me.”