I try not to stare as I sip my overly-steamed latte at the table outside the small coffee shop. It feels good to be back in my home-town of Savannah. The bread is fresh and a blend of caramel and chocolate invite me to sit. The place feels odd, just off, but none of that matters. She's here, the only woman there ever was; even if I have yet to catch her attention. I've finally made it, just like her, for the reunion we promised each other we'd have.

I've waited years to see her again and now here she is. Her hair is the same curly brown, like roasted chestnuts, it was the day I knelt on the hard brick street outside and asked her to marry me. I can't see her eyes, but they seem to hold fewer lines from where I can see from my seat to the side of her. I smile as I recall how she'd squealed her yes, jumping up and down. She'd brought me to my feet and we danced on the boardwalk to the sweet melody of a saxophone played by a man who was seemed old, but whose age I've long since passed. How time changes things.

I knew I'd love her forever, just like I knew it the first day I'd seen her right here - books stacked around her, face in one of them, her green-framed glasses slipping down her nose. The place had changed from the diner I'd interrupted her studies in, to a trendy coffee shop filled with vacationers, young college students, and local professionals. Before she left me, she'd promised me the reunion.

I wonder if she'll even recognize me. She looks so young and vibrant and I, well, the years show. I hear someone giggle over something I can't hear. Is that her sister? She's been away even longer. And her parents? They've all come for the reunion.

She turns, her brown eyes meeting mine like they did all those years past. I blink and she is by my side again, standing over my table - as beautiful and confident as always, even if a little surprised.

"Tibbs! I wasn't expecting you, but I'm so glad to see you." Her hug makes me feel something I haven't felt in longer than I can remember.

"I'm sorry it took me so long. I've missed you so much." My eyes become wet with sadness and joy.

She smiles at me like she always used to, places her sweet lips on mine, and my heart jumps.