A Cup of Coffee

6. Are We Closer Now?

"What are you doing here?" I asked, puzzled.

"My car has a broken tire, so I have to take the bus today."

"I see."

I looked down at our hands, they were still entwined. I felt heat rushing to my cheeks. What are you blushing about? How old are you? 10?

Leo followed my gaze.

"Oh, sorry about that," he said, letting go of my hand.

The warmth from his hand was gone.

"It's fine," I said, staring at everything, but him.

The bus came to a sudden halt. Everyone was trying to maintain their balance. Some unsuccessfully, like me.

I lost my balance and accidentally fell on him. He swiftly caught me.

"You alright?"

"Yeah, thank you. This time I'm the one to apologize."

"No worries, try to hold the bars or maybe the rings," he said, gesturing to the plastic circles above him.

There were too many people, it was impossible to grasp something without being crushed to death. Even the rings were a little too high for me to reach.

"Here," he said, offering me his hand. "You can hold onto me for now."

I stared at his large hands for a moment. Is this real life or am I dreaming?

"Um, thanks I guess?" I gave him a tight smile.

My hands were starting to get sweaty. Will he notice? I tried to shake off his hand but his grip was firm.

"Don't worry, I don't mind sweaty hands," he said with a smirk.

I couldn't help but notice how broad his shoulders were. I looked up at his attractive face. He was about 6". He's not a basketball player for no reason. With our height difference, he could easily envelop me in a warm hug. Wait, what am I even thinking?

The rest of the ride was silent, other than the shuffling of people's feet and a person yelling into his phone. He must've been having a terrible day.

"I'm getting off here." I said.

"Alright, bye," he said, letting go of my hand.

"Bye." I waved.

~~~~~

I got home to a silent and dark house. No one was home yet, so that means freedom. I could do whatever I wanted for 2 hours. I was exhausted after a long day of school, so I took a little nap.

"Lily, wake up! It's time for dinner!" my mom shouted from downstairs.

"Coming!"

I sluggishly made my way to the dining room.

"What are we eating?" I asked.

"We're having curry," she said. "Here, help set up the table," she handed me three plates and sets of cutlery.

After 10 minutes, we started to eat. My parents were talking about how horrible work was.