Ramen

Night

The bus pulled up in front of the store. I hate shopping, but there was something special about Shopstop. They were a smaller store, but they had everything,  and if they didn't have it, you didn't need it. The begrudged shuffle across the parking lot seemed to take an eternity. When I reached the door, someone was on their way out. I reached out to hold the door for them, and I found myself face to face with Will.

Julie planned this. I know she did.

"Oh! Ashley!" Will exclaimed.

We stood awkwardly in silence for a moment before I asked "So, did Julie tell you come here?"

Will looked at me like I was crazy. "No... I work here."

"Really? I come here every week and I've never seen you before," I began.

"Ok, so I kind of work here," Will explained, "I'm learning to make ramen."

I stared in dumbfounded silence. Will released a sigh, grabbed my elbow, and lead me into the store. We walked to the back of the store where there was a mini food court. Will nodded his head to the last counter, Ryuu's Ramen.

"Is that new?" I questioned.

He nodded and continued walking toward it. After I realized he was moving again, I scrambled to catch up. Will walked around the counter and disappeared into the kitchen. I was pretty sure I wasn't allowed in there so I nervously waited outside.

I could hear Will talking with a man, but I couldn't make out any of their conversation. A man, probably in his thirties, stuck his head out the door and looked at me. As quickly as he appeared, he was gone.

My mind started wandering to thoughts of running and getting a coffee maker at a later time. Just as I was about to leave, The man came out of the door carrying two steaming bowls. He delicately placed them on a nearby table.

He glanced at me. "Eat," he said.

Then he hurriedly dashed back to the kitchen. Will emerged a moment later with a Cheshire cat grin.

"You must be pretty special if Ryuu wants to make ramen for you, especially after closing time!" Will raved.

My cheeks scorched with embarrassment at the compliment.

"Would you like to eat dinner with me?" Will asked.

"Sure," I responded.

Will found the courage to look me in the eyes.

"Ashley, would you like to eat dinner with me... on a date?" Will emphasized.

The corners of my mouth curled into a smile. I looked right into his eyes and said,

"Yes."