I opened my eyes. Soft, golden sunlight was pouring into my room. Still sleepy, I slowly got up and out of my bed. Then, all of a sudden, I remembered what I was going to do today.

Ever since yesterday, my mind was invaded by thoughts of that willow tree in the meadow. Today, I would go back to it.

I went to the bathroom and cleaned up. I chose to wear a thin pair of leggings and a cute black and white vest top. I quickly pulled my hair into a high ponytail and rushed downstairs.

"Well, aren't you impatient this morning?" My mum asked.
"Yeah yeah mum," I replied distractedly, quickly making some toast and tea.
"So, what are you doing today?"
I hesitated.
If I were to say where I was going, I was sure to be bombarded with a million questions (was it safe? Would I be alone? How far was it?)
"I'm going for a walk," I said, truthfully enough.
"Ok but make sure you stay in the city darling."
"Hmm" I pretended to have my mouth full of toast so as to not answer.

I finished breakfast in the next five minutes. I packed a bag with water, a notebook, a pen, my phone and a bit of money. Then I left the house.

The anticipation of reaching the magical meadow reached me, and so I began walking very quickly. But the world was out to get me again.

I turned the corner and bumped into someone.
"Oh sorry-" I began, then stopped. For standing in front of me was James.

"Oh Alison I'm so sorry. Are you ok?"

No! Of course I wasn't. I had crashed into my crush! Oh dear, here I was, blushing again. God, I blushed ever so easily. But how could I not? James was such a lovely person. He had the most silky, wavy, black hair and shining emerald eyes. He was also so considerate and kind to everyone.

"Er- I'm fine!" I practically shouted. Kill. Me. Now.

He blinked. "Well, that's great. Hey I was meaning to thank you about yesterday. That was very nice of you."

"Oh, no it was nothing. You don't have to thank me."

"Well, I insist on anyway. So what are you up to may I ask. You seem to be in quite a rush."

"Em, well. I'm just off to explore!" I said, sounding as if I was ten.

He laughed kindly. "Well, that does sound nice. Any set direction?"

"Yes." I blurted.

"Oh, can I ask where?"

"To the tree!" Oh God, what was wrong with me. Oh, I was nervous, and me being nervous always led to me also being painfully honest.

"The tree?" He asked, raising his eyebrows.

"Well," I began, " is not just any old tree. I have found a beautiful willow tree in a meadow and I'm returning to it today."

"Wow, it sure sounds like an adventure!"

"Would you like to come?" Oh no. KILL. ME. NOW.

"Are you asking me on a date?" He asked seriously, then laughed.

Finally I got a hang of myself. "Oh god I'm so sorry. You are busy and-"

"No I'm not," he gently interrupted," and I would love to come."

Great. Thanks a lot, fate.