Sokeefe Coffee AU

Chapter 3- Ice Skating

AUTHORS NOTE: Can't believe we already have 17 reads in like a dayy!
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The next day before classes, she found herself back at the coffee shop, the scent of autumn spices and freshly baked goods wafting through the air. The place was bustling with early morning customers, but she had a feeling that Keefe had been waiting for her. He winked when he saw her, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "The usual?" he asked, already reaching for the espresso machine.

Sophie nodded, watching as he worked his magic. The way his hands moved with such confidence and ease was mesmerizing. She couldn't help but wonder if he applied that same skill to other areas of his life. The bell over the door chimed again, and she tore her gaze away, focusing on her backpack and the mountain of homework that awaited her.

When he handed her the steaming cup, she took a moment to appreciate the artful design of the foam on top. "Thanks," she murmured, taking a sip.
Keefe leaned closer, his eyes shimmering with anticipation. "Remember, Foster, I'm expecting to see some serious moves on that ice," he teased, his voice low enough that only she could hear.

Sophie couldn't help but chuckle. "You're on," she said, the promise of fun lightening her mood.
As she turned to leave, she noticed something scribbled on the napkin beneath her cup, "See you tonight, Foster."

Her heart skipped a beat. The note was subtle, but it was there, a secret message only for her. She felt a warmth spread through her chest, a sensation she hadn't felt in a long time. As she walked out of the coffee shop, the napkin clutched in her hand, she couldn't help but replay their interaction in her mind. The way his eyes had danced with amusement, the casual confidence in his voice when he suggested ice skating. It was all so... Keefe.

The sun had set by the time she arrived at the rink, casting a soft glow on the frosty landscape. The cold air bit at her cheeks as she stepped out of the car, but she barely noticed. All she could think about was getting on the ice.

Keefe was already there, looking as suave as ever in a black jacket and a pair of jeans. He waved at her from the entrance, a hopeful smile playing on his lips. She couldn't help but feel a tug of pity mixed with excitement. He had no idea what he was in for.

"Ready to show me up?" she teased as she approached, her own skates already laced up.

Keefe's smile never wavered. "Bring it on, Foster," he said, holding out his hand to help her up. His grip was firm, and for a moment, their eyes met, sending a jolt of electricity through her.

Once they were on the ice, it was clear that their skills were on two very different levels. Sophie glided effortlessly, her movements fluid and graceful, leaving a trail of mist behind her. Years of practice had honed her skills to a sharp edge, and she felt alive as she spun and leaped through the rink. Keefe, on the other hand, wobbled precariously, his legs moving in a series of jerky motions that were more akin to a newborn fawn than a seasoned skater.

Deciding to help him out, she stopped and skated back to him. "Here, let me show you how to do a simple jump," she said, her voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. Keefe's eyes lit up with excitement, and he nodded eagerly.

Sophie positioned herself in front of him, her skates cutting precise lines in the ice. She demonstrated the move, explaining each step with patience. "See?" she said, landing a perfect waltz jump. "It's all about the timing and the push."

Keefe nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. He took a deep breath and mimicked her movements, his feet wobbling as he tried to find his balance. Sophie stepped closer, placing a hand on his arm for support. "You've got this," she assured him, her voice gentle.
On the third attempt, Keefe's confidence grew, and he pushed off the ice with surprising force. For a brief moment, he was airborne, but reality had other plans. His feet came down with a thud, and he lost his balance, toppling towards her. Without thinking, she threw her arms around him, trying to steady him. But the momentum was too much, and they both ended up in a tangled heap on the cold, hard surface.

For a second, the world stopped spinning. All she could feel was the weight of Keefe on top of her, his warm breath misting against her cheeks. The air was thick with the sound of their laughter, echoing through the otherwise quiet rink. He looked down at her, his eyes wide with shock before they softened into a gentle smile. "Well, that was... unexpected," he murmured.

Sophie couldn't help but laugh, the tension between them dissipating like the fog around them. "Are you okay?" she asked, her voice shaking with amusement.
Keefe grinned down at her, his eyes twinkling. "Never better," he said, his voice low and close to her ear. "But I think I'll need a few more lessons before I can keep up with you."

Sophie's heart skipped a beat. "I'd be happy to teach you," she replied, her voice just as soft. They lay there for a moment longer, the cold ice beneath them forgotten in the warmth of their shared laughter.
Eventually, they managed to untangle themselves and stand up. Keefe brushed off his clothes, his cheeks a charming shade of pink. "So, uh, about that coffee," he said, a hint of embarrassment in his tone. "Do you still want to get out of here?"

Sophie nodded, smiling. "Yeah, let's go."