Love's Second Chance

005

The tension between Cameron and me had simmered beneath the surface, and though we had shared a moment of vulnerability in the old treehouse, it was clear that our feelings were far from resolved.

After a quick shower and getting dressed, I made my way downstairs to the kitchen. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, and my eyes were drawn to the table where a familiar mug sat, steam rising from its contents. A sticky note was attached to the front of the mug, and as I picked it up, my heart skipped a beat.

"I'm Sorry - C"

Cameron's apology stirred emotions within me, briefly coaxing a soft smile. Yet, I swiftly pushed aside the sentiment, mindful of the complexities between us. Notes, no matter how heartfelt, couldn't dismantle the barriers that had risen. Setting the mug down, I focused on preparing for the day, fixing myself some breakfast. I refused to grant her the satisfaction of seeing me enjoy the coffee.

I was in the midst of making breakfast when I heard Cameron's footsteps behind me. I turned to see her entering the kitchen, her expression a mix of uncertainty and determination. She didn't comment on the mug, which wasn't surprising, but her presence alone was enough to convey her intentions.

"Morning," I greeted her, trying to keep my tone casual. Trying to be somewhat polite. I turned off the stove and joined her at the dining room table. We sat in a somewhat awkward silence for a moment.

Then, she spoke up, her voice gentle but hesitant. "Ava, I was thinking... maybe we could go to that café we used to hang out at when we were teenagers. You know, the one near the beach."

I looked at her, a faint flicker of surprise in my eyes. She wants to go to a cafe? Is this girl Bipolar or something? I considered her proposal for a moment, not sure what to make of it.  Eventually, I nodded slowly, mustering a faint, hesitant smile. "Sure," I replied before taking a bite of my eggs.

Cameron's eyes widened in surprise, clearly not expecting my agreement. Her initial shock gave way to a grateful smile, and the tension in the room seemed to dissipate ever so slightly. Perhaps this café visit would be a chance for us to reconnect, clear up whatever happened yesterday. 

"Really?" she asked, her voice tinged with relief.

I nodded, my smile becoming more genuine. "Yeah, definitely. Mosaic Memories,' chocolate fraps are to die for. They have a piece of my heart." I playfully held my chest.

Her smile widened, and she let out a soft sigh of relief. "Thank you, Ava. I appreciate it." We may not have fully addressed the complexities between us, but agreeing to this small excursion felt like a step in the right direction. 

We got ready in silence before heading back down stares. Cameron's eyes landed on the coffee mug I'd found earlier, and I watched her reaction carefully. She didn't mention it, but her gaze held a hint of remorse, and it was enough for me to understand that she truly was sorry.

As we settled into the car for our journey to the Cafe, Cameron couldn't resist her urge to play her music. "Mind if I connect my music?" she asked, reaching for the aux cord.

I glanced at her with a playful smirk. "Are you sure you want to subject me to your music taste again?"

Cameron chuckled. "Hey, I'll have you know my music taste is impeccable."

I raised an eyebrow, pretending to consider her request. "Last time, your 'impeccable taste' involved a lot of questionable boy bands and early 2000s pop hits."

She rolled her eyes with a smile. "Come on, Ava. My music choices have evolved since then. Besides, you secretly loved jamming out to those songs."

I couldn't help but laugh at the memory. "Okay, fine. But if I start cringing, I'm taking control of the music."