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Iʋσɾყ Mαყ 17ƚԋ Qυҽҽɳʂ, NY
I pushed open the door to Gloria's, a warm wave of familiarity washing over me as I was engulfed by the cozy air it invited unto my skin. The scent of freshly brewed coffee and the comforting aroma of home-cooked brunch meals filled the air, wrapping around me like a reassuring embrace. I scanned the room, the friendly chatter of patrons and the soft hum of conversation creating a soothing backdrop.
And then, behind the counter of the bar, I spotted her. Xaier's Aunt Gloria, who owned this charming establishment, talking to a man that sat there. Her eyes twinkling with happiness and becoming even more lit up with recognition once she finally saw me. Her warm smile and welcoming demeanor made me feel instantly at ease.
She was right, this place really did bring a sanctuary of peace. Even if my down mood was because of the man who showed me this restaurant in the first place, it was still so... comforting. Like a new home.
I made my way toward her, and as I approached, Gloria's face continued to light up with genuine joy. "Oh my Ivory! Aren't you a sight for sore eyes?" Gloria exclaimed, her voice filled with affection.
I smiled shyly, thanking her as she came around the counter to embrace me in a warm motherly hug, and I hugged her back just as tight if not tighter. It'd been a long time since I had a hug like that, and after the shitty past few days- hell, past few years that I've had, I really needed it.
"Hi Ms. Young, it's so good to see you." I said politely as we pulled away.
She waved me off with a hand and shook her head, "Call me Gloria, or Glo. Or mom, whatever you want! It's so good to see you again, how are you?" she asked me placing a comforting hand on my lower back as her hazel eyes stared into mine. I found myself become a little choked up at her question.
How are you?
Those simple words always hit the hardest when you knew you weren't doing well.
I cleared my throat and blinked a little, trying not to cry on the spot. I didn't mind being vulnerable but damn, can I at least get some food first before the waterworks start? Jeez Ivy. "I'm uh, not so great, which is why I came here, sorry if I'm intruding but you said this could be a safe space for me if I needed somewhere-"
"Well of course, and I meant that, sit down at the bar here. Aye! Shoo!" she interrupted me, leading me over to where the man she was once talking to sat, and shooed him away with her hands, making him stand up.
"You gone do me like that Glo?" he turned to her and asked, but moved anyway like she said. I had to admit for an older man, he was extremely handsome. His grey hair was so pretty and curly, he had a strong jawline and his facial hair was well groomed and taken care of. I could already tell this had to be her boyfriend or something of the sort. With the way he looked, I wouldn't be shocked at all.
