New Beginning

Chapter 4: Unsettled Felling's

"What's wrong with me? Why did I react like that?"

I can't possibly be jealous... right?

Oh no. No, no, no. This can't be happening.

I fell for him, didn't I?

What am I supposed to do now? There's nothing I can do. I can't fall for the most annoying person in our former group.

And so what if I have feelings for him? It doesn't matter. I can't be with him—besides, he's dating that girl. What's her name again? Quincy? No... Quinn. Yeah, that's it. And she's at least ten times prettier than I, even though I hate to admit it.

I've known Alex for five years, and he's only ever dated the most beautiful women. That's his type, and I definitely wouldn't describe myself that way. Besides, he'd never have feelings for me.

I just need to get over these emotions before things get weird or awkward.

But why did he suddenly start dating again? His last relationship ended a year ago—or close to that—so why now?

Royal Coffee Shop

"What's your order, sir?" the barista asked.

"One cortado—and... actually, give me two."

Blake gestured toward the seating area. "Go ahead and sit—I'll be right back."

I nodded, taking a seat at the center table.

The coffee shop was called Royal Coffee. Fancy name. The place itself was elegant too—clean lighting, rich wood furnishings, the faint hum of hushed conversation filling the air.Perfect for a date? I wasn't sure.

I wasn't even sure if this was a date.

Was it?

I didn't even know Blake's full name. Shouldn't that be the first thing you know about someone before sitting across from them like this?

"Sorry, that took a while." Blake returned, placing the coffee in front of me. "I forgot to ask what you wanted, so I picked something for you. I hope cortado is fine... I'm really sorry."

I smiled, shaking my head. "No, no, it's perfect. That's actually the one I usually order anyway. Thank you."

(That's not true, but I didn't want him to feel bad.)

"Oh, good!" He sat down, watching as I took a small sip. (It's not bad, I thought to myself)I smiled.

"Your smile is cute." I blushed.

"What's your name?" I asked, clearing my throat.

"Oh—where are my manners? You can call me Blake," he said with a grin.

"Nice to meet you, Blake."

"Likewise," he said, still smiling. "And you? What's your name?"

"Juliana." "Even your name is cute."

I blushed again. "Are you from around here?" I asked.

"Yeah, I was born here, but my parents are out of the country right now."

"Cool."

"And you? Are you local?"

"No, I just moved here a few days ago with a friend."

"Oh? How's it been so far?" He looked intrigued.

"Pretty good, especially at night."