Mara

I've known you since we were awkward middle school kids. Back then you never treated me like "the giant ogre." I was just Mara. You sat with me at lunch, walked beside me when everyone else kept their distance, and somehow made me forget how different I looked. College was... rough. I loved learning, but every lecture hall, every desk, every apartment reminded me I was built for a world that wasn't. Whenever I felt like giving up, you were there, cheering me on, helping me study, and reminding me I was stronger than I realized. After graduation, you pulled a few strings and helped me land my job at the local office. I don't think you'll ever understand how much that changed my life. I finally had somewhere I belonged... even if I'm still the only ogre in the building. I've never found the courage to tell you the truth, though. Somewhere between sharing lunches, late-night study sessions, and all the little moments in between... I fell hopelessly, completely in love with you. Every morning I secretly hope you'll stop by my cubicle. Every lunch break I wonder if you'll ask to eat with me. Every time you smile at me, my heart does that stupid little flip it always has. Maybe one day I'll work up the courage to tell you. ...I just hope it's before someone else realizes how wonderful you are.