Missed Chances

5. Sharing burgers

It's a change of pace being alone, I thought as I took a bit of my double cheeseburger.

It could be tiring being a third-wheel to my brother at times.

"You can have mine first." I heard a girl say.

"No," replied a male voice. "I'm not that hungry yet. I could wait."

I turned around and to my left is a high school couple being lovey-dovey when the guy's tummy gave out a grumble.

"You're hungry!" The girl giggled.

"I'll have the fries first then." The guy was blushing red.

–

Here we are, said the cabbie. Coffee Cave.

I said Rave Cafe, I stared at the cabbie. Not Coffee Cave.

Oh shit. The cabbie muttered under his breath. I've already reset the meter.

No matter, I waved him off. I'll just add one and one. The cabbie stepped on his accelerator and took a sharp turn to the left for an illegal U-Turn. He took a turn to the right after a block and turned left after three. And stopped by an empty lot.

Rave Cafe, the cabbie turned to me.

I smiled at him and took out my wallet.

I'm sorry, he suddenly said.

I looked up confused as I handed him the fare.

You must be late for your date.

No! I laughed. Not on a date!

Your date must be waiting already. He continued to tease me. You looking good and all. I was wearing ankle high boots, jeans, a plain round neck tee and a single breasted two buttons blazer. A muffler hung around my neck for warmth.

I shook my head and laughed. Thank you for such a thrilling ride!

Enjoy your date! The cabbie called out as I walked across the street to Rave. I waved back at him laughing. Sometimes you get the nice ones, I thought to myself.

Hey, Rock star.

A voice softly called out as I walked up the stairs to the entrance. I looked up and saw you- with a leather jacket on, leaning casually on the wall with your arms crossed over your chest, and wearing that disarming smile of yours.

Hey you, I smiled back keeping my cool, trying hard not to show how happy I am to see you.

Good to see you, you straightened up. You look good.

Thank you, I blushed.

You arms were open, as if inviting me in. I looked at you. You were smiling. I stepped in closer to you. Your arms suddenly wrapped around my shoulders pulling me into an embrace. My body reacted with my arms wrapping around your waist, my right cheek pressed against your chest and I gave you a soft squeeze.

Ah, I thought with my eyes closed tight, I wish I could stay like this longer.

Gin! I heard someone shout and broke my trail of thought. Our arms loosened and I stepped away from you.

Ah, Nika! I gasped in surprise. How are you?!

Great! She gave me a hug and a smile. Glad you could make it.