Just Like Cinderella

Just Like Cinderella [10]

The drive was filled with silence but not an awkward one. She wasn't sure what had changed or when it had happened, but she surprisingly didn't feel too anxious around him again.

Even more surprising was when he kept driving past all the ritzy restaurants in the area, slowing down only after almost an hour of driving. She was blown further away when he stopped the car in the parking lot of The Stritch.

There was nothing wrong with the place, it was actually a pretty great diner. That was the thing; it was simple and quaint and located on that part of the town, the part where all the less privileged stayed. Although compared to the other derelict buildings around, The Stritch was like a five-star establishment. It was really cozy, and had the whole vintage theme going for it. Josi had stopped by enough times to know they made the best muffins—any and every type.

Caleb was fast enough to get the door for her but she got down without any aid from him. Together, they walked inside the diner.

There were very few customers when they stepped in, being so early on a weekend. Josi knew it how packed it could be otherwise and was grateful for the privacy now. The last thing she needed was word getting around town that she was hanging out with Caleb Flynn. Even though it was a one-time thing. Once was enough to cause a lot of damage.

Caleb chose a booth for them close to the window, where they had a good view of the street across.

"I didn't know you came here," she commented as they sat across each other.

Caleb shrugged. "I do when I want to get away."

"Get away?" she echoed before she could think about it. She began to apologize for being nosy, but he replied her without looking annoyed.

"Don't you ever feel like escaping your reality, even if it's for a little while?"

Josi thought about Tammy, her devil-sent stepsisters, her frequently absent father and Megan's constant disappointment at her cowardice. She gave a small nod. "I do. I understand perfectly."

Caleb's hard gaze turned less severe. "I knew you would."

"So what do you hope to escape, if you don't mind me asking?"

His frown was almost imperceptible, and she wouldn't have seen it if she wasn't already keenly observing him. "A lot if I'm being honest. My family, lacrosse, Kehlani, even Asher. Probably everything. How about you?" he asked suddenly, switching the focus to her. "What do you need to get away from?"

Josi almost didn't answer, but guiltily noted he had shared with her. It was only fair that she did the same. "My family. I'm sure you've noticed we aren't the loving, hugging bunch."

She couldn't interpret the look he gave her when she said that, so was relieved when the waitress arrived. She escaped Caleb's penetrating gaze to face the girl who was too busy tying her apron to look up at them yet. She looked around their age, rocking long dark hair that had more purple than black in it, and when she did look up, it was with the friendliest smile. Josi saw her eyes were a warm hazel color.

Her smile turned exceptionally bigger the moment she spotted Caleb and Josi braced herself for another Flynn fanatic. She couldn't hide the surprise on her face at what she witnessed instead. "Nice of you to finally stop by, loser. I see you brought a friend." She focused that smile on Josi again. "He never brings anyone with him," she said, shooting him a glare. "I was beginning to think it's because he's a loner."

Who was this girl who saw Caleb Flynn as less than a god? Josi could immediately tell she was bold, funny, and good friends with him. Her smile was nowhere near as open as the other girl's, but still genuine. "Better hold on to that thought," she responded, giving Caleb a teasing glance. "I'm Josi."