Short story

I was invited to a get-together at a five-star restaurant, which I attended with great anticipation. I took my time selecting the perfect outfit for the occasion and felt stunning when I arrived.

Upon reaching the venue, I started to feel shy and wondered if I had overdressed. Nervousness crept in just as a fine gentleman approached me, offering to walk me to the table. It seemed like he sensed my discomfort—such an angel.

It felt like something out of a novel. My imagination was standing right in front of me, and for a moment, it seemed like I had stepped into a dream, teleported into a book. There he stood, his eyes as captivating as the ocean. As I walked closer, my heartbeat quickened. He smiled warmly, and those eyes—oh, those eyes! My face betrayed me, and I felt the unmistakable heat of a blush creeping up my cheeks. Why do I always blush so easily? I thought.

There we were, face to face. A nervous "Hi" escaped my lips. He extended his hand toward me, and I took it, allowing him to lead me to my seat. After a while, we found ourselves deep in conversation, forgetting we were at a get-together . He was everything I imagined in a man, knowing exactly what to say—just like my imaginary boyfriend. Can he read my mind? I wondered. Every word he spoke made my stomach flutter and my heart race. Mind (My inner self), where are you?

I told him how much I love the ocean and how I’ve always dreamed of running along the cold sand at the beach, with different scenarios playing out in my head. To my surprise, he responded, "Okay, let's do it."

"Do what?" I asked, confused.

"Run on the beach," he replied.

Still unsure of what was happening, I agreed. He then led me outside the restaurant, which happened to have a beach and a hotel nearby. We walked toward the beach, and he helped me take off my heels—a gesture I found so manly. Next, he pulled a camera from his bag, having mentioned earlier that he had a passion for photography.

He handed me an AirPod and played Lana Del Rey’s "Red Dress." Then, with a twinkle in his eye, he said, "Bring your imagination to life." Normally, I wouldn’t have fallen for such words, but I guess the alcohol had kicked in. Before I knew it, I was running along the beach, freeing myself from all my thoughts, bringing my imagination to life. He was there, recording me with his camera.

I must say, it was the best night of my life. I couldn’t have asked for more. Afterward, he escorted me to my hotel room, where we said our goodnights. We never exchanged numbers, and by the next morning, he was gone. I never saw him again.

Though I never got to know his name, I had always remembered his as Jay.