In this novella, the narrator recounts a relationship with the man who would become the love of her life.

Elizabeth is still a teen, newly out of high school and on her own, when she meets Sam. She had never seen “eyes as blue and shiny as his or such gorgeous blond hair with little curls at the end.” The moment the two introduce themselves, hands touching in hello, Elizabeth feels an energy between them.

After a brief flirtation, Elizabeth makes a bold move and the two begin a storybook romance. The pair delight in doing even the simplest, everyday things, such as taking drives and lunching with Sam’s family. Sam even goes to work with her, and they soon move in together. Then Elizabeth is promoted to manager, and the tension begins to take its toll on their relationship. Despite their strong feelings for each other, their future together is questionable.

While the story’s concept is clear, this isn’t a fully rendered tale but a summary of one. There are few, if any, scenes; the story is comprised primarily of exposition in which Elizabeth relates the romance from beginning to end. The gaps in the tale are numerous. For example, it’s unclear where Elizabeth is employed until well into the story. At one point, Elizabeth attempts to teach Sam different languages, but there’s no information about what language Sam speaks or why he needs to learn others.

Perhaps the biggest puzzle comes after the pair apparently part, then rekindle the romance. Pages later, the narrative contradicts that information.

The author’s writing is solid, with the joy and sorrow of love well portrayed. But without engaging scenes to flesh out the bare-bones’ plot, the story remains little more than a sketch of what might be.

Also available as an ebook.