From the start (Joel Miller x Reader)

Chapter 8

The cozy aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped you as you and Joel nestled into a corner booth, your faces illuminated by the soft morning light. You scanned the menu, a slight smirk playing on your lips.

Joel ran his fingers through his hair, still slightly damp from the shower. "This place reminds me of the little café in town where Sarah and I used to grab breakfast," he shared, his voice tinged with nostalgia.

You smiled, finding comfort in the connection he was sharing with you. "It must be nice to have those memories," you replied. "I'm sure Sarah appreciates them too."

Joel's expression softened. "Yeah, I hope so. She's in college now, and I want her to carry those happy memories with her."

"So, Joel, what's your breakfast go-to? Are you a pancakes or eggs kind of person?" you inquired, a playful glint in your eye.

Joel grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Well, I've got a soft spot for fluffy pancakes, but a good omelet with all the fixings is hard to resist. What about you?"

You considered the options, your eyes twinkling with mischief. "I'd say I'm more of a waffles and fruit kind of person. I like that sweet and savory combination."

As you placed your orders, Joel couldn't resist a curious inquiry. "So, I've heard a bit about your writing. What's the current project you're working on?"

You leaned in, your voice filled with enthusiasm. "Right now, I'm diving into a mystery novel. It's got all the classic elements, with a little bit of a twist. I'm excited to see where the characters take me."

Joel's interest piqued, and he leaned closer. "That sounds fascinating. I've always been intrigued by the creative process. How do you find inspiration for your stories?"

A playful smile graced your lips as you answered, "Sometimes inspiration strikes in the oddest places. It could be a conversation I overhear or even a scene from a movie. But, honestly, being here at this coffee shop, sharing this breakfast with you, is a source of inspiration in itself."

Joel's eyes held a mix of admiration and curiosity as he asked, "So, you find inspiration in people and their stories, don't you?"

You nodded, a warm appreciation for his understanding shining in your eyes. "Absolutely. People have a way of surprising you, and those unexpected moments often make the best stories."

The breakfast conversation meandered through shared interests, favorite books, and experiences that had shaped your perspectives. It was a delightful exchange that allowed you both to uncover more layers of each other's personalities, creating a sense of closeness and connection.

As you sipped your coffee and indulged in the delicious breakfast, you couldn't help but feel grateful for this moment of shared laughter and conversation. It was a reminder that, despite the complexities of your lives, there were pockets of joy that could be savored and cherished. With the remnants of a fulfilling breakfast before you, you both leaned back in your chairs, enjoying the feeling of contentment that lingered in the air.

With a playful twinkle in his eye, Joel posed the question, "So... are you up for some fishing tomorrow?"

You considered the idea, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips. "Fishing, huh? I've got to admit, I've never been much of an angler, but I'm willing to give it a try."

Joel's enthusiasm was contagious as he explained, "There's something peaceful about being out on the water, just you, the fishing rod, and the gentle lapping of the lake. It's a great way to unwind and connect with nature."