The Bookstore

(16) Just Coffee?

Jack

Lily and I arrive at the quaint, recently opened café I invited her to when we went to the art exhibition. The café has a modern, rustic charm with exposed brick walls, wooden furniture and large windows letting in natural light. The atmosphere is cozy yet vibrant, with soft music playing in thr background. 

I'm dressed in a dark blue button-up shirt, black jeans and black leather boots. I look casual yet put together, my hear neatly styled. She's wearing a cute light pink blouse with lace detailing, paired with high-waisted jeans and white sneakers. Her hair is loose as always, a few waves falling down her face. I could eat her up right now, she looks extremely cute. We walk into the café, greeted by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods.

"Ladies first." I say, smiling while holding the door open for her. She rolls her eyes but smiles slightly. We're starting great here.

"Thanks, Jack." She simply answers. We find a table near the window and sit down. I hand her the menu.

"I heard this place has the best pastries in town. What do you feel like having?" She looks at the menu.

"Hmm, maybe a croissant and a cappuccino."

As I try to get the waiter's attention, I wave my hand a bit too enthusiastically and accidentally knock over a vase of flowers on the table. This is definitely not starting great. I couldn't wave the waiter like  a normal person, no.

"Nice one, Jack. Starting off strong, I see." She says while giggling. Okay, I take back what I said, I made her laugh. I couldn't help but blush slightly while picking up the flowers. I laughed too, the "starting off strong" phrase always gets me for some reason.

"Just trying to make a memorable impression." I see the waiter approaching.

"Good morning! What can I get for you two today?"

"I'll have a black coffee and a blueberry muffin. And she'll have a croissant and a cappuccino."

"Great choice. I'll be right back with your order."

While waiting for our orders, I tried to impress Lily by attempting a magic trick with a sugar packet. I learnt it long time ago. It never went wrong, however, it seems like I'm a butterfingers today and the packet bursted open, spilling sugar everywhere. Well done, man. You're DEFINITELY impressing her.

"You're really on a roll today, aren't you?" She says, laughing her ass off, making me grin sheepishly.

"Just trying to keep things interesting."

As we enjoy our food, she suddenly looks at me with a concerned and confused look, as if she just felt a strange sensation. She glances towards the window.

"Did you feel that?" She says while frowning slightly. I look around.

"Feel what?"

"Like someone was watching us." I just shrug at her words.

"Maybe it's your imagination. This place can give off a spooky vibe sometimes."

***

After finishing our coffee, we decide to take a stroll around the town. The streets are lively, with people going about their day, shops bustling with activity.

The sun is high in the sky, casting long shadows and highlighting the vibrant colors of the town. We walk side by side, occasionally stopping to look at store windows or greet acquaintances.

"It's nice to take a break from all the mystery and just enjoy the day." I say.

"I agree. It's been a while since I've had a day like this."

We pass by a street performer doing a juggling act. Lily tries to show off and attempts to juggle a few oranges from a nearby fruit stand but ends up dropping them all.

"Maybe juggling isn't your thing." I say while laughing. She laughs along with me.

"Clearly not. But hey, at least I tried."

After a long while, it was lunch time and we found an outdoor café. It has a charming patio with tables shaded by large umbrellas, overlooking a small park.

The ambiance is relaxed, with people chatting and enjoying their meals. The air is filled with the smell of fresh food and flowers from the nearby park.

"This place looks nice. What do you think?"

"Perfect spot for lunch. Let's grab a table."

***

"So, Lily, what do you do when you're not dealing with mysteries?"

"I like to read, paint... how about you?"

"I'm into photography and painting as well. And trying to not make a fool of myself too."

"You're not doing a great job today, are you?" She says while smirking.

"Definitely not. But returning to the painting stuff, I had an art career in Paris."

"Wait, really? That sounds amazing, I had no idea!"

After having lunch, we decided to watch the sunset from a hill that offers a panoramic view of the town. Well, I proposed it. The sky is painted with hues of orange, pink and purple as the sun begins to set.

I took of my jacket, now in just my dark blue shirt and jeans. We find a comfortable spot on the grass and sit down enjoying the breathtaking view.

"This is beautiful... I'm glad we did this." I say while sighing contentedly.

"Yeah, it's been a nice break from everything."

"Lily, I know I can be a bit much sometimes, but I really do care about you." I turn to look at her and she looks back at me.

"I know, Jack. And I appreciate it, even if I don't always show it."

We sit quietly for a while, watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting the town in a soft twilight. Her hand is far away from mine, but I can always reach out to grasp it and hold her hand in mine, and maybe kiss her. Is this the right moment?