Living In The Dawn

●ECHOES OF THE PAST●

|LIVING IN THE DAWN 1|

☆ S A S H A ☆

The steady patter of rain against the
windshield soothes my nerves, creating a rhythmic backdrop as I sit in my car, taking refuge from the world outside. The engine hums softly, adding to the sense of peace I find within this small, enclosed space-my escape from the daily grind of waiting tables. Today, the rain drumming on the roof perfectly matches the tranquil mood that has settled over me, much like the well-worn novel I'm lost in.

Curled up in the driver's seat, I lean forward, my curls falling over my face as I devour the pages of my latest thrift store find. The cover, faded and creased, promises tales of ancient magic and forbidden love, worlds far removed from the monotony of my day-to-day reality. The smell of old paper mixes with the fresh scent of rain, creating a cocoon of comfort in my tiny car.

I flip the pages eagerly, fully immersed in the story of dark enchantments and intense, passionate drama. My eyes skim across the text, completely absorbed as the heroine battles perilous trials, and the enigmatic hero's true nature is unveiled. Outside, the diner, the rain, and even the city itself fade away. Here, there's only the story.

Then a loud knock on my window jolts me back to reality. I jump, almost dropping the book as my heart leaps into my throat. I look up to see Desi, my friend and coworker, her face framed by rain streaks and the hazy glow of the neon diner sign. Her expression is a mix of amusement and concern as she gestures for me to roll down the window.

"Hey, Sasha!" Desi shouts over the rain, her voice urgent. "We're slammed in there, and we're short-staffed! Customers are piling up!"

I blink, shaking off the lingering magic of the story. Embarrassment heats my cheeks as I fumble with the book, shoving it into my bag. I flash Desi a sheepish smile, regret washing over me for letting myself get so lost.

"Got it, Desi. I'm coming," I say, fumbling with the door handle.

Desi arches an eyebrow, a playful grin tugging at her lips. "If you spent half as much time working as you do reading, we might actually keep up with the rush."

I laugh, shaking my head. "You're just jealous you can't get lost in a book like I can."

Desi rolls her eyes but smiles. "Maybe. Or maybe I'm just tired of dealing with cranky customers who can't wait for their coffee."

I step out into the rain, the cold droplets soaking through my coat and sending a shiver down my spine. I pull my jacket tighter and rush toward the diner, boots splashing through puddles as I go. The warmth inside hits me as soon as I enter, the familiar clatter of dishes and buzz of conversation wrapping around me like a comforting, chaotic embrace.

Desi's already back at work behind the counter, directing the controlled chaos like the pro she is. I grab the order slip she hands me with a knowing smile.

"Here you go, bookworm. Table five needs a refill. And don't let me catch you daydreaming again," she teases.

I grin, taking the slip. "No promises."

As I weave through the crowded diner, the atmosphere is thick with noise and movement. I pass a group of rowdy college guys in the back booth, their loud laughter slicing through the background chatter. One of them, a tall guy with messy hair and a cocky smirk, kicks his feet up and calls out as I approach with a tray of fries.