In The Space Between Us

Night bars and Spices

The excitement of their first meeting at the gallery had lingered in both Maya and Alex's minds, and they quickly arranged to see each other again. Despite the concerns swirling in the background of their lives, they were eager to explore the connection they had felt. Yet, as they began spending more time together, the differences between them started to surface in subtle but significant ways.

Their first date was set for a Saturday afternoon. Alex had suggested they meet at a trendy rooftop bar in the heart of Manhattan. Known for its panoramic views of the city and its chic, minimalist design, it was a place that Alex frequented with his friends and colleagues. He had envisioned a relaxed afternoon with cocktails and conversation, a chance to enjoy the city's summer breeze and the vibrant energy of the crowd.

Maya, on the other hand, had different expectations. When she received Alex's text about the venue, she hesitated, not quite sure how to respond. The rooftop bar sounded glamorous, but it wasn't the kind of place she felt comfortable in. Her idea of a perfect afternoon was something quieter, more intimate—perhaps a walk through Central Park, followed by a visit to a cozy café where they could talk without the noise of the city drowning them out.

She decided to go along with Alex's plan, not wanting to seem unadventurous. But as she stood in front of her closet that morning, she found herself uncertain about what to wear. The bar's reputation for being trendy and upscale made her question her usual choice of attire. Her style was more casual, reflecting her artistic lifestyle—flowy dresses, simple sandals, and a love for earthy tones. But today, she felt compelled to wear something more sophisticated, something that would fit the environment Alex had chosen.

After much deliberation, she settled on a sleek black dress that she rarely wore, pairing it with a set of delicate jewelry that her mother had given her for special occasions. As she looked at herself in the mirror, she felt a pang of discomfort. The outfit was beautiful, but it wasn't her. It felt like she was dressing up for a role she wasn't entirely comfortable playing.

When Maya arrived at the rooftop bar, she spotted Alex immediately. He looked effortlessly put-together in a crisp white shirt, tailored trousers, and designer shoes. His smile was warm as he waved her over, but Maya couldn't help but notice the difference in their appearances. She felt slightly out of place, the sleek dress a stark contrast to the casual vibe she preferred.

"Wow, you look stunning," Alex said, greeting her with a kiss on the cheek. "I'm glad you could make it."

Maya smiled, trying to push aside her discomfort. "Thank you. You look great too. This place is... impressive."

They found a table near the edge of the rooftop, the city sprawled out before them. As they settled in, Alex ordered a round of cocktails, opting for a signature drink that the bar was known for. Maya glanced at the menu, feeling a bit overwhelmed by the selection of craft cocktails and artisanal spirits. She wasn't much of a drinker, and the prices on the menu made her uneasy.

"I'll just have a glass of wine," she said, choosing something simple and familiar.

As the conversation began, they touched on topics that felt safe—art, the latest exhibitions, and their favorite books. But as the afternoon wore on, the differences between them became more pronounced. Alex talked about his work in finance, the high-pressure deals he was working on, and the networking events he attended regularly. Maya listened, interested but also feeling a growing disconnect. The world Alex described was so far removed from her own—a world of deadlines, power suits, and boardrooms, where success was measured in numbers and deals.

When the conversation shifted to their plans for the evening, the differences in their lifestyles became even clearer. Alex suggested dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant he had been wanting to try. It was a place known for its innovative cuisine and exclusive ambiance, the kind of place where reservations were booked months in advance.