𝐋𝐎𝐌𝐋², jack champion

035, 𝐢 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐨 𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐫

035, 𝐢 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐨 𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐫
irl + social media
(song for this chapter is
'evermore' — taylor swift
& bon iver)

THIRD PERSON +
december 4, 2024

Jack tightened his scarf as he stepped out into the bitter December air.

New York's winter had a way of creeping into his bones, but today, the cold felt different—sharper, almost like it was slicing through the protective layers he'd built up around himself. He had barely slept last night, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts, every memory of Juniper echoing louder in the stillness.

This city was full of reminders of her, and somehow, every street seemed to scream out her name. (cornelia street mentioned?)

He took a deep breath, trying to shake off the nerves that clung to him. Just as the sun started to pierce the morning haze through the faint fog, he pulled out his phone and dialed Mason, hoping his friend might have some grounding advice. The line clicked, and Mason picked up almost immediately.

"Jack?" Mason's voice was groggy. "Man, it's early. What's going on?"

Jack let out a long sigh, gathering his thoughts. "Mason, I... I'm in New York. I'm here to see Juniper."

The line was silent for a beat. Then, Mason let out a low whistle. "Finally came to your senses, huh?"

"Yeah, I guess you could say that. But, man, I can't shake this feeling that every time I get close to her, I mess everything up." Jack pressed his fingers against his temples. "I don't even know where to start. What do I say?"

"First off, breathe," Mason advised. "You sound like you're one step away from hyperventilating."

Jack managed a weak chuckle. "Yeah, I feel like it."

"Look, you need to get some caffeine in you and clear your head. Take a walk, grab a coffee, and get your thoughts in order. You're not gonna do yourself any good if you're wound up like this."

Jack nodded, even though Mason couldn't see him. "Alright, alright. Thanks, man."

"No problem. Just... be real with her, Jack. That's all you can do." Mason paused, his tone softening. "And, hey... don't be too hard on yourself. You're trying, and that counts for something."

Jack hung up, his heart feeling a little lighter, though nerves still twisted in his stomach. He tugged his scarf closer to his chin and started walking down the street, the morning traffic a steady hum around him.

Christmas lights lined the sidewalks, draped over lampposts and trees, twinkling against the early sunlight. People bustled by, bundled up in coats and scarves, laughter spilling out of cafes as holiday tunes played faintly in the background. It was the kind of morning that made you want to savor every moment, but all Jack could think about was the weight of the conversation he hoped to have.

As he approached the little coffee shop, he felt a rush of memories hit him. This was where they'd had their first date, tucked away in the cosy corner by the window, sipping lattes and laughing about everything from their favorite films to the quirks of New York winters. He remembered the way her nose crinkled when she laughed, the sparkle in her eyes when she teased him about his terrible taste in espresso.

Jack pushed open the door, the familiar smell of coffee and baked goods wrapping around him like a comforting hug. He ordered a simple oat milk latte, needing some caffeine to ground him. The barista handed him his drink with a warm smile, and Jack offered a quiet "thanks" before making his way to the back of the shop, to the same corner they'd sat in on that very first date.