She took my breath away

We met in the first Year at College, way back in 1992. She was the smartest, prettiest, most brilliant girl I had ever met. She was silent, had a lot of admirers, but not many friends; she created this shield around her, that not too many people could get beyond. But we just hit it off, I guess cos I was an introvert too.

We parted ways soon after college, and since we both took different paths, didn't really manage to stay in touch. This was a time before mobile phones, WhatsApp or Social Media - so unless one truly made the effort, it wasn't easy to stay in touch.

Through the years, we met a few times, by chance and always in unenviable situations.

Our paths crossed 15 years ago, when a friend had met with an accident. I was surprised to see her since I didn't think she knew him well through college. It was an awkward interaction, since we hadn't met in a long time.

Then again, a few years ago, when dad was battling a severe illness. It was again as if she came out of nowhere; she stayed with me through the last few days before he passed. She was my strength when I needed it the most. This got us close and rekindled past emotions.

We stayed in touch more often, over calls and messages but didn't manage to meet in person. I tried, but she never seemed to have the time.

Today, after 4 years she finally agreed to meet me - I've been chronically ill for some time. I never told her about it, I didn’t want her to come out of pity.

But I really wanted to see her, I needed to see her – one last time, since I have been given just a few more days;

Today when came, she told me that even though she really wanted, she couldn't come earlier - cos every time she visits, someone has to go!