As I get ready to pay, a wave of nervousness hits me, making me feel like shutting down. Usually, I'd chat with Mary or Mr. Jenkins about the books I'm buying, and they'd give me little insights about them without spoiling anything. Mr. Jenkins would always hand me a candy before I left, a small but sweet tradition. But today, I just stand there, anxiously waiting to be told how much the books are.
"Good choices!" the new guy says, breaking the silence.
"Sorry?" I respond, a bit caught off guard.
"The books! Good choices," he repeats with a friendly smile.
"Oh!" I reply, followed by a nervous laugh. It feels like I've forgotten how to interact for a moment.
"Ethan," he says, as he starts scanning the pile of books.
"Lily," I respond, trying to sound a bit more composed. "I come here every now and then."
"I see! Mary mentioned someone who comes here almost every day. Must be you, huh?" he adds with a grin.
Mary talks about me? That's... unexpected. I awkwardly laugh it off. "Yep, that's me!"
Ethan continues checking the books and places them carefully into two bags. His movements are precise, professional, but there's something relaxed and kind about the way he does it.
"All set. Hope you have a great evening, Lily!" he says, his voice calm but with a certain warmth to it that catches me off guard.
I can't wave back since my hands are full with the bags, but I offer a smile. "Thanks. You too!"
As I walk home, I replay the interaction in my mind. It was awkward, sure, but Ethan seems... nice. Different from what I expected. Maybe next time, I won't feel so nervous around him.
YOU ARE READING
The best man
ChickLitLily and Conor have been inseparable since their university days, bound by a deep friendship that has weathered the test of time. While Conor appreciates Lily's presence in his life and the comfort of their relationship, he remains oblivious to the...
