Un-Arranged Love

Chapter 24

Both Alaya and Alex had entered the café hand in hand. There were a few glances here and there that Alaya had noticed. Mostly from girls who appeared to be envious of Alaya. Alex appeared to be uninterested in what was going on around him. He was just focused on Alaya. He drew a chair from a table and signalled for Alaya to take a seat. He sat down next to her.

''Aren't you supposed to be working Alex''  Alaya said, not wanting Alex to get into any trouble.

''It's time for the participants to sing in front of the crowd and this is when I can rest a little because I'm in charge of the stage set up. What would you like to drink?'' He went on to ask.

''Surprise me'' Alaya responded. Alex grin grew as he loved how she mimicked his response.

"You need to quit being so cute," Alex said quietly as he bent down near to Alaya's ear. "I'm having difficulty stopping myself from kissing you."  The back of Alaya's neck began to swell with goose bumps which vanished as soon as Alex walked away. Alaya couldn't figure out how this person was able to have such an impact on her. 

Alex stepped behind the counter to prepare Alaya's drink. 

Alaya couldn't help but notice the café's grandeur. The architecture and interior design were charming and rustic, with elegant modern touches. Long lights with lovely light shades hung from the ceiling over the tables and chairs. A lime green sofa with cushions sat in the corner, with a coffee table in front of it, creating a welcoming atmosphere. A bookworm would take a seat there, Alaya thought. The walls were covered in brightly coloured paintings, drawings, and amusing signs. Her mood was lifted by the pleasant aroma of coffee that lingered in the air. Alaya threw a glance over to Alex, who appeared to be having a good time behind the counter. She could tell he seemed to enjoy working at the café.

Alex reappeared with a grilled cheese sandwich and a pumpkin spiced latte.

''Alex, I've already eaten. I'm sorry, but I won't be able to eat the sandwich.'' Alaya expressed her regret for declining the food.

''But it's the only thing on the menu that I can cook decent. I haven't had anything to eat yet.  At the very least, have a piece, and I'll finish the rest." Alex went on to suggest further.

"But you won't be able to eat it if I take a bite,"  Alaya inquired, perplexed by his suggestion.

''Of course I will. In fact it will taste even better. Unless you have a contagious disease that I should be aware of...''  Alex shook his head with a faint chuckle.

''Oh shut up"  Alaya giggled and poked her tongue out at Alex, as she answered. "If it pleases you, I'll take a bite.''

Tori was the first to take the small stage, which featured a fabric backdrop, a little microphone with a stool beside it, and dangling lights. To the side, there was a keyboard. It was a simple setup, but it was charming. Tori grinned as she saw Alaya in the café. Alaya gave her a thumbs up and mimed to her, "All the best."  

Tori sat on the stool, her guitar resting on her lap. She tapped the microphone to make sure it was working and introduced herself. While playing the guitar, she began to sing a song she had written herself. Tori's talent astounded Alaya. She never would have thought that this quiet, reserved girl has so much talent. Alaya stood up from her chair when Tori finished, clapping and cheering her on. Tori rushed over to Alaya and gave her a big hug.

"I can't believe you showed up. Alex said you weren't able to. I'm so pleased you came. So.... how was I? "   Tori inquired, her fingers entwined, uncomfortably.