Melodies of a stranger

Chapter 17

TW for this chapter:
Homophobia
Harassment / threats
Mental health issues

Maxi watched the handsome figure as he strummed the last notes of a song. It was Thursday and Riftan was coming towards the end of his set. He nodded his thanks as someone put some money in his guitar case, then started playing his next song 'hold my girl' by George Ezra.

Maxi listened intently as she nodded along with the rhythm with her eyes closed.

I've been waiting for you

to come around and tell me the truth

about everything that you're going through

My girl, you've got nothing to lose

I've got time, I've got love

got confidence you'll rise above

give me a minute to hold my girl

give me a minute to hold my girl

Soon the closing chords were played. She opened her eyes to find Riftan intently staring at her. She flushed as he strode over and gave her a passionate kiss.

"Do you mind grabbing me something to drink please while I pack up?"

"Yeah, no problem."

Maxi pushed open the door to the crowded coffee shop and went to order a drink for them. After placing her order, she started to move to the end of the counter to wait only to realise that a tall woman with thick black hair which flowed down to her mid back was already standing there. The woman was striking, with high cheekbones and full lips. She wore a business suit, with a striped shirt underneath.

Maxi stood rooted to the ground, taking the woman in. Her mind was a complete jumble. She felt like she couldn't breathe.

"Excuse me miss, can you move down please? I need to take the next customers order..."

Maxi's eyes flew to the staff member before returning to the woman, who had started to turn to look at the commotion. Their eyes met, before the woman's face twisted in displeasure. Maxi swallowed before she started walking forwards.

The woman watched Maxi towards her and scoffed, shaking her head.

"You are pathetic, you know that? Can't I even buy a drink in peace."

"I'm just buying-"

"I'm not an idiot. You never could take a hint, could you? How about this- leave me alone and stop following me around like a lost puppy."

"I'm not-"

"Stop, just stop. You're not worth the effort. Can't you just crawl back into whatever filthy hole you've been living for the last year. I thought that I had made myself clear that I never want to see you again."

Maxi's turned red as her face turned down to the ground. She was battling with the impulse to run away. 'is it too late to cancel my order?' Maxi fiddled with the straps of her bag while she debated what to do. The woman took in Maxi's posture and scoffed.

"Aww sorry, did I ruin your grand plan? Did you think I would come running if you showed your ugly face? I knew you were a bit slow, but I didn't think you were that stupid."