Thank you, for listening

Chapter 14 :Serendipitous Encounters

The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the bustling café where Lucy had decided to take her lunch break. She had just finished a session with a particularly challenging client, and their words lingered in her mind. As she stepped inside, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling veggie burgers filled the air, instantly lifting her spirits.

Lucy scanned the café, her eyes landing on a cozy corner table by the window. It was her favorite spot—a perfect place to unwind and recharge before her afternoon sessions. After placing her order, she settled into the seat, pulling out her notebook to jot down reflections from her earlier meeting.

A burst of laughter from across the room caught her attention. Turning slightly, Lucy noticed Tim sitting with two women she recognized from the station—Angela and Nyla. Tim was gesturing animatedly as he shared a story, looking more at ease than she'd ever seen him. When he glanced her way, he smiled warmly.

"Lucy!" he called, waving her over. "What are you doing here?"

She smiled back, feeling an unexpected rush of excitement. "Just taking my lunch break. A client recommended this place, and I thought I'd give it a try."

"Good choice," he nodded, looking pleased. "Come join us?"

For a second, she hesitated. They rarely saw each other outside of work, and part of her enjoyed the mystery of their time together. But then, the prospect of a spontaneous moment of connection felt too inviting to pass up. She agreed and made her way over.

"Let me grab you something to eat," Tim offered. "What'll it be?"

"A veggie burger with fries, thanks," she replied, settling in as he headed to the counter. Angela and Nyla exchanged glances, their expressions curious.

"So, you're Lucy," Angela said with a grin.

Lucy laughed lightly. "That would be me."

Nyla leaned forward, eyes twinkling with intrigue. "Tim talks about you a lot, you know."

"Oh, really?" Lucy felt her cheeks warm. "Hopefully all good things."

Angela smirked, glancing toward the counter. "He thinks you're pretty amazing."

Lucy smiled, feeling a mix of flattery and embarrassment. "He's just being nice."

Angela's expression softened. "It's nice to see him open up about someone," she said quietly. "Tim's a great guy, but he doesn't let people in easily."

Nyla nodded. "You must bring out his lighter side."

Lucy's heart fluttered as she processed their words. She'd noticed a shift in Tim over time, a gradual unveiling of the man beneath the badge, and their support gave her a fresh sense of how much that connection meant to him.

Tim returned with a tray and set down her burger with a flourish. "Voilà!"

"Thank you," Lucy said, looking up at him gratefully.

As they all dug into their meals, laughter and stories flowed easily, and Lucy felt herself relax into the easy banter. At one point, Angela turned to her with a curious smile. "So, Lucy, what's it like balancing therapy with your own life?"

Lucy appreciated the genuine interest in the question. "It's definitely a challenge. I love my work, but I have to remind myself to take breaks. Some days can be pretty heavy."

"I can imagine!" Nyla said, nodding thoughtfully.

Tim, leaning back with a reflective look, chimed in. "It's good you're taking time for yourself. That balance is everything."