Cursed Realities

13. Unspoken Love

In the cozy ambiance of the cafe, Natasha found herself immersed in a unique routine, spending time communicating with Steve through their special language. The silent conversations became an intricate dance of gestures and expressions, creating a connection that transcended the need for spoken words. Each day, their understanding deepened, forming a bond that went beyond the complexities of their individual worlds.

Steve, a regular visitor at the cafe, began to open up to Natasha about his passion for writing. In those quiet moments, he would share snippets of his work, offering Natasha a glimpse into his creative world. 

While he extended an invitation to read his writings, Natasha, with a genuine smile, promised to delve into them once he completed his literary endeavors. It was a shared understanding that some emotions find their true expression when penned down, a sentiment that Steve seemed to embrace wholeheartedly.

As Natasha enjoyed the quiet moments with Steve, she also dedicated her time to deciphering the clues that could potentially save him from the fate she feared. The urgency and determination in her eyes reflected the depth of her emotions. She couldn't bear the thought of any harm befalling this Steve, who appeared so pure and vulnerable in his own way.

The day was marked by a drizzle that persisted since the morning, creating a damp and cozy atmosphere in the cafe. Natasha's worries dissolved as the familiar figure of Steve entered, a bit later than his usual time, almost at evening. The sight of him, however, brought a genuine smile to her face.

Steve, with a wet umbrella left outside, approached the counter with a warm smile. Natasha greeted him with their silent language, "[Light coffee with cream, as usual?]"

 Expecting the usual response, she was taken aback when he shook his head and replied, "[I want a herbal tea today. I'm having sneezing.]"

 Concern flashed in Natasha's eyes as she inquired, "[Did you have a fever?]" Steve reassured her with a head shake, and she promptly prepared the herbal tea for him. Concern lingered as she suggested, "[You should have worked from home. It's raining.]"

To her surprise, Steve accepted the suggestion with a smile and settled into his usual seat by the window. The cafe buzzed with its usual activity, but Steve seemed to be doing something different today. Hours passed, and Natasha couldn't help but steal glances at him, wondering about the change in his routine.

Suddenly, Steve stood up, capturing Natasha's attention. She hoped he was about to bid farewell, but his gestures took an unexpected turn. "[NA-TA-SHA]," he signed her name in the silent language they had developed. Natasha's eyes widened with surprise; he was calling her name in sign language! A smile played on his lips as he continued, "[I practiced a lot.]"

Her heart skipped a beat at the revelation. Steve wasn't merely learning sign language; he was learning her name specifically. 

The shock gave way to a smile as he carried on, "[I didn't have any work today. I just wanted to see you.]" With that, he turned around, leaving Natasha standing there, stunned and utterly charmed.

 Maria, with a knowing smirk, cleared her throat, gesturing in sign language, "[Boy is head over heels for you.]" Natasha blushed, realizing the depth of Steve's efforts to communicate with her, and the cafe witnessed another chapter of their unique connection.

The atmosphere inside the cafe was warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the subtle drizzle that persisted outside. Natasha's sharp eyes couldn't help but notice Steve's cherished possession, his pen, left behind on the table where he had been sitting. Her heart skipped a beat as she interpreted it as yet another subtle attempt from him to connect with her.

Swiftly, Natasha informed Maria of her discovery, providing a brief explanation for her sudden departure. The urgency and determination in her eyes spoke volumes as she seized Steve's pen from the table. Without a second thought, she sprinted out of the cozy cafe, paying little attention to the constant, subtle drizzle that dampened the dark sky.