Breaking Walls (A Doug Baldwin Story)

Chapter Five

"Krista!"

Soph yells for me from upstairs while I'm in our makeshift office downstairs. I honestly hate bookkeeping. I decided to stay home on this nice Friday morning to get caught up with paper work. I've talked to Sophia to consider to hire someone to do our books, like an accountant or someone.

"Girl!" Soph stands at the doorway, holding up her top. "Please zip me up?"

I chuckle as I roll my eyes. She's all dressed in a cute outfit since she's staying at Paul's place this weekend. They apparently are going on a date this afternoon after she finishes some pastries.

"You know, this is a health violation," I joke as I take in her outfit.

Now she rolls her eyes as she gathers her bags. "And I co-own the place. So it's not like I'm going to get fired."

As she runs upstairs to grab her purse, the doorbell rings. Opening it, I see Paul standing there. He's a sweet guy, and looks like the typical boy next door. It still gets to me how he and Sophia are a thing. They're total opposites of each other. She's outgoing and isn't afraid to express herself; he keeps to himself and is soft-spoken.

"Come on in, Paul," I step aside. "She's just grabbing her purse."

He smiles at me. "Ok. How have you been Krista?"

"Oh, you know. Busy managing the café. I could use a break," I shrug my shoulder.

He looks thoughtful. "Are you sure you don't want to join Soph and I on Sunday? We're going to a football game."

I internally cringe. He's nice to invite, but I wouldn't want to.

"Babe!" Soph comes down the stairs, a serious look on her face. "Krista wouldn't want to go a football game. She's not really into sports." She looks at me, a small smile on her face.

I smile in return, thankful for her save. I turn back to Paul. "Thanks, but no thanks. I don't want to intrude on your guys' weekend. Besides, I have plans," I lie.

They take it and head out. I go back to the office and start working on the books. The café has gotten so popular these past few months that I've hardly had the time to do paper work. I've been helping out front with customers. As I'm putting stuff into the computer, I get a notification on my phone. Picking it up and reading the message, I smile.

-I hope you're eating, woman :P -Doug

Looking up at the time, I'm surprised its lunchtime. The morning has come and gone. As I get up to head to the kitchen to make something to eat, I text Doug back.

-I am getting up, and walking to the kitchen as we speak.-

-Oh, good. And while you're out of your office, you should open your door -Doug

What? Confused, I turn and head to the front door and open it. I was prepared to see Doug standing there, but no one was there. Even more confused, I go and call him.

"Who are you calling?" His voice causes me to look up from my phone. He's standing there smiling as he pulls his phone from his pocket. Looking at it, he chuckles and answers. "Can I help you Miss Weston?"

I laugh and shake my head, ending the call on my end. "What are you doing here?" I step aside to let him in. "Don't you have work right now?"

"I'm heading in in a few hours. I thought I could stop by and make you lunch. Sophia called me and asked if I could check in on you." Doug heads to my kitchen as if he's comfortable with the place. I notice his ankle is better and he's not limping anymore. I've missed my running partner in the mornings.