Even Better Together

chapter two

Sophia

"Finally, inhale for 3, and exhale for 3. Namaste." I bow my head as the class copies.

It's approaching 8.30am on sunny August morning and I've just finished teaching my class.

I love yoga.

The feeling of calmness and relaxation it gives my mind, plus the way it keeps my body toned and in shape is amazing.

"Thanks class, I will see you on Friday."

I gather up my mat and water bottle and start making my way out of the sports centre. I work two jobs to make sure I can pay the rent that is huge from living in London.

Monday, Wednesday and Friday I work in the sports centre with my yoga class 7am-8.30am.

Then Thursday, Friday and Saturday I work 9am-3pm shift at Aroma, a coffee shop just in the centre of London, only a ten minute walk away from the sports centre which is ideal.

Aroma is owned by a sweet old couple, Jenny and Bob. I have worked there since I was in college and help them out on the busiest days. It's a cute, bright and airy place, with a corner to read books, lots of greenery and cool overhead rope lighting. They serve the best coffee along with delicious pastries and cakes, all made my Jenny herself.

As it's now Wednesday, I don't have a shift at the coffee shop today, however I'm in need of some caffeine this morning so start making my way over to Aroma.

While walking my phone starts vibrating in my hand, looking down at the caller ID I smile glancing at my best friends name.

"Hey Ives, what's up?"

"Guess what?! I got the promotion! You are now talking to a Senior Marketing Director! I can't believe I got it!" Ivy tells me excitedly.

"I'm so happy so for you! Well done."

Ivy had been preparing herself for this promotion for the last couple of weeks and was adamant she messed it up, no matter how many times we told her she will have done great and she has just proven us correct.

She works for a huge marketing firm in London and has been after some progression for the last two years so I'm happy she finally has achieved that.

"Are you doing anything tonight? Let's celebrate!"

"Nope, I was just gonna stay home and read a good book."

"Okay, let me call Cass and I'll text you later?" Ivy suggests.

"Sure, see you later."

I hang up the call just as I enter the coffee shop. Just as I go to pull the door it flies open towards me and I stumble backwards.

"Shit."

I hear a deep voice as I feel a large hand on my waist.

I steady myself and look up as the hand disappears from my body, leaving a coldness to where it was touching me.

My eyes connect with the stranger who just nearly knocked me over, and I feel my chest tighten as my breathe hitches in my throat.

The same green eyes as last Saturday in the club.

I see more tattoos this time, on his arms and peeking through the top of his shirt.

Wow, this guy is fucking hot.

"Sorry about that." He apologises quickly.

I realize at that moment that I'm still staring at him and my cheeks burn with embarassment.