Call Me Babe

Chapter 8

Taylor found herself inexplicably drawn through the door once she’d set eyes on the coffee shop. It seemed so welcoming, so warm and inviting, a sharp contrast to her parents’ house she’d be heading to later. She had always thought that this town felt like a time capsule to years past, but this building felt utterly timeless. Mismatched mugs lined the cafe bar, ready to be filled with the drink of your choosing, and plants of all kinds were perched on every table and windowsill. The most intoxicating part of this particular shop however was the familiar eyes that had looked in her direction when the bell rang to signal a customer had arrived. 

A gentle smile spread across Joe’s face, and Taylor’s feet pulled her closer to the counter without her even thinking about the motion, as though he had some magnetic field drawing her in. Some simple hellos were exchanged, and Joe took the opportunity to crack a joke, desperate to see the joy filled smile that had consumed his thoughts in high school. “Well, I’m glad our last encounter was at least memorable enough to make you remember my name this time.” Taylor’s expression quickly became flustered, as he continued, “Come on, you know I’ll never let you live that one down.”

After placing her order, Taylor took a seat at a nearby table, and opened the novel she had brought with her. A few moments later, she looked up to see Joe standing there, her coffee in one hand and some paperwork in the other. Motioning to the other empty seat, Joe asked if she’d mind some company. She agreed, set down her book, and began asking about how the coffee shop came to be.