Diary entry - Kissing Kyle

Diary entry from my mother, Janice (Nizana), that I found yesterday. It was on her computer which is an unorganized mess of photo and text files. I might find more.

March 12, 2014
I spent the afternoon working on a new flowerbed in the backyard, a project I had been contemplating for weeks. Kyle, a 15-year-old neighbor with a passion for gardening, offered to help me bring my vision to life. He and Lauryn had been friends since childhood and since he was known to be a good worker, I hired him to help me a few afternoons after school.  The warm sun embraced us as my hands dug into the soil, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of birdsong and Kyle.

As we worked side by side, Kyle shared stories about his life, dreams, and aspirations to own a landscape business someday. There was an innocence about him that reminded me of me of Lauryn. We laughed and exchanged banter, making the hours fly by. The simplicity of the moment felt precious, a respite from the complexities of adult life.

Taking a break, we retreated to the kitchen for a glass of ice water. The air was light, filled with the aroma of freshly turned soil and the promise of a beautiful garden. In that moment, Kyle planted a gentle kiss on my lips. I suspected it wasn’t his first though I was sure he’d not kissed any 37-year-old divorcees before.  

Kyle blushed and said he was sorry, but I told him it was fine and that I rather liked it. I said something like, “Life is filled with unpredictable moments, and this one of those. Thank you for making me feel happy. You’re a nice young man.”

We both seemed to understand the boundaries of our connection. As much as we enjoyed the shared laughter and camaraderie, I knew this couldn’t continue.

He asked if he could help with the garden Friday morning, and I said yes.  

But Friday’s a school day. I’d better let him know that won’t work.