Finally: My Emotional Connection With The Penguin On 3rd Floor Collis

Well, hello there. Don’t think I haven’t noticed you staring at me from across the room. Those piercing blue eyes are impossible to miss. Not that I mind your attention, of course. I came to the third floor of Collis for a quiet place to study, but with you here it seems I’ve stumbled into quite the distraction. I wonder what brought you here? Did you come for a meeting with the Office of Greek Life? You don’t strike me as an ordinary frat boy. Did you come here to enjoy the silent refuge of this space? Your eyes entice me and invite me in; I want to know your story, what makes you tick, what makes your heart pound behind that big green D on your chest.

You’re leaning in so intently it’s making me blush. Tell me, am I that interesting to look at? You seem more of a treat to the eyes than I do today. I almost feel like I should be the one saluting you. I can’t help but steal glances at those strong flippers, that broad chest. Part of me wants to know what it would feel like to be held close to you. I imagine it feels like the safest place on earth. I’m blushing again now, and not just because you haven’t looked away since I noticed you staring my way. I don’t think anyone else has seen me like that. But you. Your eyes pierce me, desire me. I am wanted. This might be the first time I’ve felt this way about a complete stranger, is that crazy?

But I know you’re not just some perfect prince charming here to sweep me off my feet. You’ve been hurt in the past, I can tell. I see that massive dent in the side of your head. You wear the scars of your past so openly and proudly; you’re braver than I could ever be. I’m not afraid of the fact that you’re broken, you know. Sometimes I think I might be broken too. But your brokenness is beautiful. It’s what makes you who you are. It’s what makes you real, more real than any other boy on this campus. Those damn eyes of yours haven’t looked away from me yet and I hope they never do. I want to keep looking into them as I get to know you more. I want to know what it might take to comfort you and ease that pain inside. I can’t see your mouth from behind that loose green mask but I know your beaky grin must light up a room. I want to see that smile so badly; I get the feeling that you could finally teach me how to laugh again.

Looking at my watch I see it’s time for me to head to class. As I pack my things I can feel the dampness streaking down my cheeks. Tell me, why must the brightest flames burn out so quickly?

I look at you again one last time before heading down the staircase. Our eyes meet again and I know you understand. Our heartaches meet with a kind of resonance that fills my chest and begs me to stay. One last salute to you, my love, and I am out the door. I hope we can meet here again.

Adieu my love

– BH ’23