declared for another, but, simply put, I found myself not being able to hold back from him. Whether it is because of his godly status or the connection that is so strongly shared between us, clearly given by the fates, I do not know what caused this infatuation. Yet, it is clear to me that I was drawn to my love in a strong and unrelenting way, as if he were irresistible to me, and I to him.
When I first saw my love, I knew instantly who he was, although he was not in his truest form. I could tell, just from that first encounter, that I had fallen for him. I knew this in my heart; it was clear to me after it had been three days and I still could not get him off of my mind, until of course he appeared to me again. In truth, by the time I knew what was happening, it was too late. Everything about this man enamored me. The kind yet stern disposition surrounding him seemed to guide his every move, a clear sense of leadership and confidence articulating every move, every last step. And his eyes, those irises like storm clouds and thunder in the dead of night… I quickly found myself hopelessly lost in them. I had become bewitched by the god, by everything that comprised him, and eagerly awaited each time he would visit me next. This progressed, and our infatuation quickly grew deeper and deeper for one another. I soon began to feel like it was too late to mention our romance, in fear of Hera unleashing her rage upon us. To this day, I still fear Hera unleashing her rage after uncovering the truth.
I also fear the reaction of my love once he uncovers the truth as well. It would be an understatement to say I have been keeping something secret from everyone, as well as him, lately. In my defense, I didn't feel as though it would be safe for me to reveal this truth either, as I believe I am pregnant with his child. I can not be entirely certain yet, but I do believe that I am carrying the child of a god as I write this. This, understandably, is a strange feeling, that I do not know what to draw from. I am also not certain about how these events played out in the way that they did, and remain feeling confused on the whole matter.
It is strange to think that I am having a child with a man that I have never truly seen. Understandably, that is one of the most unsettling things about my current predicament, as well as the threat of Hera. My one greatest desire is to see my love in his truest form, especially now that we are having a child together. It was recently made apparent to me that I have never truly cast my eyes upon him, and now it is a thought that turns over and over again in my mind. I plan to ask him to fully reveal himself to me soon after I write this, and I remain hopeful that he will allow this to me!
I will transcribe the next happenings between myself and my love,
Fondly, Semele
1st Place
11th Grade
NJCL Essay Contest
Natalie Naylor, Flint Hill School '21
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