It Was Really the Skittles

Her stomach was growling. The pops, the squeaks, the deep rumbling sounds could all be heard across the room. Elizabeth sat in her bed, the covers pulled over her legs and the laptop resting on top of them, trying desperately to ignore the sound and write the promised poem. But the noises just became louder, more distracting. It was annoying.

Finally, she pushed the computer aside and threw her legs over the edge of the bed. Walking quietly to the kitchen, she hoped her roommate wouldn't hear her. She opened the fridge, the cupboards, and the freezer finding nothing appealing. Then she searched the top of the refrigerator. Her hands found nothing, but one of her fingertips brushed over something. It crinkled in response.

Elizabeth stood still, contemplating if it could be true. She brushed her hands over the surface of the refrigerator, afraid to believe. The familiar crinkle sounded again. A smile crept to her lips and her mind began to race over the possibility. She stood on her tiptoes, reaching for the bag. A few attempts later and she grasped it securely enough to pull it forward.

It fell over the side of the refrigerator, landing safely in her outstretched hand. Her smile widened until it owned her whole face. It was like falling in love. Exciting, somewhat taboo, and a temptation she could not resist. Quietly, she snuck back down the hall and into her room, closing the door gently behind her. She sat on the edge of her bed, laying the bag on her bland white comforter. Her tongue ran across her lips, an involuntary reaction.

She reached over and picked up a corner of the bag gently, causing a few of the bright spheres to spill onto the comforter. She lifted the bag a little higher. More fell out. "How do I love thee. Let me count the ways." Elizabeth said out loud. Then the first handful of skittles were tossed in to quiet her complaining stomach.