Hosie~ One Shots

Don't Judge A Book By Its Cover Part 4

Josie leaned back in her chair, stretching her arms above her head. "I think I just want to go for a walk, get some fresh air," she said, her voice light and relaxed. "This place is cute, but I need a little space to breathe, you know?"

Hope nodded, her expression soft and understanding. "Yeah, I get that. A walk sounds nice."

Just as Josie was about to stand, the waitress came over, her smile still lingering from earlier. She placed the bill on the table, giving them a knowing glance.

"Your total, sweethearts," the waitress said, her tone teasing but warm. She winked at them before walking off, leaving them alone once more.

Josie reached for her wallet, ready to pay her share, but before she could, Hope beat her to it.

"I've got this," Hope said with a grin, already pulling out her card.

Josie blinked in surprise. "Wait, no, you don't have to—"

Hope raised a hand, cutting her off. "I want to." She slid the card to the waitress, who took it without a second glance. "It's the least I can do after you put up with my crazy ideas all night."

Josie hesitated for a moment, her fingers still hovering near her wallet. She glanced up at Hope, whose smile was warm, genuine.

"I really appreciate it, but you didn't have to," Josie said softly. "It wasn't—"

Hope shrugged, her expression calm. "It's fine. You've got enough on your plate. Consider it a little thank you for tonight."

Josie could tell Hope wasn't going to let her pay, and despite her initial hesitation, a small smile tugged at her lips. "Okay, okay. But next time, I'll get it."

Hope gave a playful nod. "I'll hold you to that."

The waitress returned shortly, giving them a friendly wave as she handed Hope her receipt. "Enjoy your walk, you two," she said before heading off.

Josie stood up, grabbing her jacket, and turned to Hope with a light smile. "Alright, let's go for that walk."

Hope stood as well, slipping on her coat. "Lead the way."

They stepped outside, the cool night air greeting them as they walked down the quiet street. The city was still alive with distant sounds—cars passing, people talking—but it felt peaceful here, away from the noise of the club and the diner.

Josie let out a contented sigh, her hands tucked into her jacket pockets. "This is nice. I don't even know why, but it is."

Hope walked beside her, her eyes scanning the street in front of them. "Yeah, it's simple. Just... no pressure."

Josie smiled, feeling more at ease than she had in a long time. "Exactly."

They walked in comfortable silence for a while, letting the night air calm their thoughts. There was something about being with Hope, away from everything, that made everything feel a little clearer.

They strolled through the park, the soft rustling of leaves in the trees adding to the peaceful atmosphere. The moon hung high in the sky, casting a gentle glow over the winding paths and benches scattered along the grass. It was quiet, the kind of stillness that felt comforting, almost like the world had slowed down just for them.

Josie kicked at a small rock on the ground, the sound of it skittering across the pavement breaking the silence. "You know," she said, her voice thoughtful, "I don't think I've done something like this in ages. Just... walked around with no agenda."

Hope smiled, glancing at Josie. "Same. Sometimes, it's nice to just forget about everything and enjoy the moment. No rushing, no plans, just... here."

Josie nodded, the corners of her lips lifting slightly. "It's really nice, actually. I'm glad we did this."