Reader Response: Boyfriend Beware of the Girl Who Reads

A response to this entry, as one reader/writer.

Are you sure you’re not drunk? I’ve read enough young adult literature to beware of boys like you who come up to nerds like me.

Just so you’d know, the glasses are not a signal of desperation, it means that I can see well enough to scrutinize you.

Still there? Stubborn, aren’t you? Fine, pull up a chair. But make it quick, I’m just about to get to the good part.

So you want to date a girl who reads. Why now?

Well.

I like that you’re drawn to my mind, but there are risks involved that rubber stoppers won’t be able to save. Yeah, I am swayed by the power of the written word. I will swoon and look for that certain something more. I crave the fantastic that is only perfectly achieved in fiction. That’is why I wear glasses and have no time to do much with my hair outside of washing it. My pillows are moot, I sleep on pages.

Can you imagine what it will take to sweep me off my feet? While I read, I am on the lookout for what the next chapter will bring. As much as I want to be surprised, I’m also eyeing what might be in store. A book and I embark on a mental race. I know it’s a worthwhile read when it doesn’t beat me to the punch, but gives me enough room to delight in the guessing games while I play with its patterns; all while leaving me breathless when I turn to the final page.

I’m also a writer. You know I won’t keep secrets, right? Everything you tell me will find bits and pieces in the things I put together. Just thought I’d throw that in there.

Still there? Wow.

What will it take?

Mr. Darcy.

Heard of him? Read it, it’s good stuff, made better with zombies. Eh, okay, guess you can settle for the movie version. I’ll forgive you for Keira Knightley.

Mr. Darcy is aloof enough to keep us interested, but knows when to let his guards down and let the girl in. He changes for Elizabeth, of his own accord, I daresay. He’s like a good book, you notice? A little on the rough side, but compelling, surprising, and manages to sweep me off my feet.

Are you up to the challenge?

No rush, I’ll just be here, reading.