"I Will Still Love You"

Chapter 4

Flashback - January/95

"Oh God!" were the first words that came out of his mouth

Joanna just stood there, looking at the perplexed boy. She didn't know what to do. She didn't know if she should throw herself into his arms or run away. He looked just like she remembered him. But there was something different about the look in his eyes. They didn't irradiate that crazy energy and life like before. They seemed sad and distant. And she needed to change that.

"Long time no see, huh?!" she said

But before another word could be spoken, his arms were wrapped around her. How he missed that sensation of totality that he got when she was near. And how she missed his touch. She felt so comfortable and safe in his arms. She never wanted to let him go. Not again. She wouldn't be able to stand being away from her love. It would be too much to ask from her.

"I thought I'd never see you again. I missed you so much, Jo." Justin said

"And I missed you more, Justin boy!" she responded, hugging him tighter

Just as they were about to kiss, two kids came running into the room.

"Joooooo!" Jonathan screamed

"Hey, little boy... what's up with you?" the girl said, picking him up

"Bia told me that you weren't gonna come tonight." the little boy said, playing with her hair

"How could I spend one day without seeing you, huh?!" Joanna responded

"Nana, I'm tired." her sister told her

"We'll be home in a minute, sweetie. You go say good night and thanks to Mrs. Harless, ok?" the older girl said

"Ok. Come on, Jonathan." Beatriz said, taking the boy's hand and leaving the room

Meanwhile...

Justin just admired the scene. She looked just as beautiful as he remembered. Nothing about her had changed. She was the same kind, smart and happy girl who stole his heart. His thoughts were interrupted by her:

"Well... I've gotta go home."

"Yeah, I know." he answered "Can I call you?" he asked

A smile appeared in her lips and she said:

"You better! Your mom has my number."

She gave him a kiss on the cheek and went home. Justin was left with his thoughts. But not sad thoughts anymore. Now his eyes were full of happiness again. Happiness that he wanted to share with her.

As Joanna was walking home, images of him consumed her thoughts. She couldn't believe that all this time he was right in front of her and she didn't know. Life couldn't be more perfect. She couldn't be happier. Well, only if she was in his arms. And she hoped that would come soon.

She got home, put her sister to bed and went to her room. She looked out the window and saw a shooting star.

"Well, it's gotta be a good sign." she said to herself

And with that, she went to sleep. Just hoping the next day would come soon...