"Into The Pages Of Our Lives "

"The Cafe Encounter"

Chapter 1: The Café Encounter

Meera was busy arranging pastries behind the counter when she heard the door chime. She glanced up, and in walked a tall, handsome man. He looked around, spotted her, and smiled.

“Morning,” he said, stepping up to the counter.

“Good morning!” Meera replied, her voice slightly nervous as she wiped her hands on her apron. “What can I get for you?”

“What’s good here?” he asked, leaning casually against the counter.

Meera smiled, trying to keep it together. “Well, the blueberry muffins are a favorite. So are the coconut macaroons.”

“Blueberry muffin it is,” he said, flashing her a grin. “And throw in one of those macaroons too. Can’t resist.”

“Coming right up,” she said, reaching for the pastries. As she handed them over, their fingers brushed briefly, sending a jolt through her. She quickly pulled back. “Enjoy!”

He took a bite of the muffin immediately, eyes widening. “Wow! This is incredible.”

Meera felt a blush creep up. “It’s just a simple recipe,” she said, shrugging.

“No way. This is something else,” he insisted. “You made this?”

“Yeah, I bake everything fresh here,” she said, smiling shyly. “Glad you like it.”

“Like it? I love it,” he said, taking another bite. “I’m Arjun, by the way. Just moved back to Munnar.”

“Nice to meet you, Arjun. I’m Meera,” she said, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Welcome back to Munnar.”

“Thanks. So… you’ve got any other recommendations? I’m new to the café scene here.”

Meera chuckled. “Well, you can’t go wrong with anything here, but if you’re staying a while, try the almond croissants next time.”

“Almond croissants, huh? Noted.” He grinned. “I’m a food blogger, so I’ll definitely be back. Need to try everything.”

“Oh, a food blogger?” Meera raised an eyebrow. “That’s cool. So you travel around just eating?”

“Pretty much,” he said with a laugh. “Tough job, but someone’s gotta do it.”

She laughed too. “Sounds like a dream job.”

“It is,” he said, his eyes lingering on her. “Especially when I find places like this.”

Meera felt her heart flutter. He’s flirting, right?

“So… I’ll be seeing you again?” he asked, giving her a playful smile.

“Maybe,” Meera said, trying to sound nonchalant. “If you’re lucky.”

“Oh, I’m definitely lucky,” he replied with a wink, turning to leave. “See you soon, Meera.”

“See you,” she called out, watching as he walked out the door.

As the door swung shut behind him, Meera let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. What just happened? she wondered, her heart still racing.