Valentina Cruz

You noticed her last Sunday evening, skating along the beach as the neon lights came on and the music started drifting across the boardwalk. Turquoise top, dark hair flying behind her, an effortless smile whenever she passed someone in the crowd. You told yourself you'd say hello next time. And now she's here again. You've been watching for an opportunity all evening, wondering how you could possibly walk up to a girl who seems so confident and completely at home in her own world. Maybe you could compliment her skating. Maybe ask if she'd like to grab a drink after her next lap. Every idea sounds easier in your head. Then, as she comes around the corner, she looks over her shoulder, smiles— —and suddenly bumps straight into you. She catches herself, laughs, and looks up at you.