Gaze Quote by Nikki Jefford
““The boys tried to hit the birdie back. Fane had them racing across every corner of their court. By the end of the period they were out of breath. They took off without a backwards glance when Mr. Mooney blew his whistle signaling the end of gym. As I walked past Fane I felt a twitch. Not my own. I felt the twitch of his hand wanting to stop me. “Hey, you. Are you okay?” If I had any emotion left I’d laugh. He didn’t even know my name—that or it wasn’t worth saying. He studied me carefully. “I’ve seen that look before.” Now I was curious. Valerie jumped down from the bleachers. “Fane!” He didn’t pay attention to her. I held my breath waiting for him to tell me what he saw. Valerie sashayed her way over to Fane, red hair blazing down her shoulders. She held out his jacket. “I’m ready to blow this joint. Let’s get a bite.” Her last words grabbed his attention, and he forgot me completely. Valerie looped her arm around Fane’s and they walked toward the double doors. I was right behind them, silent as a ghost. When I reached the hall entrance leading to the locker rooms I stopped. I saw his head start to turn. I knew he was going to look back, but by the time he did I’d be gone.””
About This Quote
Source Short Story: Untitled, Nikki Jefford, 2021
A fleeting connection in a gym reveals hidden empathy and the desire for acknowledgment.
In simple terms: Brief moments can reveal deep feelings.
Key Takeaway
Notice and respect unnoticed emotional cues.
Themes
empathy
connection
loneliness
recognition
Mood
melancholic
introspective
Type
narrative
emotional
When to use this quote
- gym interactions
- social anxiety
- personal growth
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you respond when ignored?
- What can you do to acknowledge others?
A Different Perspective
The narrator’s silence may prevent genuine connection.
