Crossing Paths

Ten

His voice startled me from the shadows of the store front. "My stomach is so happy to see you." Seeing me jump, "Oh shit... I'm... I didn't mean to scare you."

Catching my breath, hand splayed over my chest, "No worries. I didn't see you. Were you waiting long?"

"Nah," He shrugged, moving to face me. "I'm starved, what sounds good?" His honey brown eyes danced with excitement.

"I'm good with whatever," I shrugged.

Taking a moment to look both directions, obviously trying to decide on something, "There's a pretty good burger joint a couple of blocks over. They make home-made fries and chips. Does that sound ok?"

"Lead the way." I smiled, feeling my stomach agree with his suggestion.

Shoving his hands deep in his pockets, we began walking towards the corner. Turning left, I followed him into territory I hadn't ventured to yet. Focusing on my surroundings, making sure I wouldn't get lost, if I should end up walking back alone.

"I wasn't stalking you today," His words timid.

His statement was so left field, it had me laughing. "That's good to know."

"Honestly," He laughed. "I didn't know you worked there. Usually it's a hateful redhead taking my order."

That got me really laughing. "Chloe." Taking a deep breath, "Her name's Chloe."

Shaking his head, "Whatever her name is, she's rude."

The laughter I felt seconds ago faded. "You're right, she's a little rough around the edges until you get to know her. We're pretty good friends." He needed to understand, even though everyone had a right to their own opinion, they didn't have to share it. And this was an example of one I personally didn't care to hear.

Stiffening beside me, "Sorry. I'm not trying to hate on your friend. I just can't believe she's in customer service."

"Her aunt owns the place. But, honestly, once you get to know her, she's one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet."

Looking at me sideways, "Yeah? I think I'll take your word."

Our walk continued in awkward silence for about half a block. He stopped in front of a fifty's style diner. The scene inside was unbelievable. Everything from the checker board floor, to the sleek teal leather covering the bar stools lining the counter, and booths lining the front window. The place really was a scene straight from the fifties. Even the waitress's wore the poufy poodle skirts, along with the black and white saddle shoes. So, maybe I was a fan of the movie Grease. But, isn't everyone?

Noting the sign to seat yourself, I followed him to the furthest booth. No sooner had we taken our seats, a bubbly bouncy waitress greeted us. "How are you folks tonight? What can I get ya?" Bright red lips smiled at us infectiously.

Without looking at a menu, we placed our order. Our smiling waitress practically skipping away to get our drinks.

"So, a plain burger. And, no pickle?" He chuckled meeting my eyes.

Rolling my eyes, "I don't eat cheese, or condiments. And, pickles are just gross. I know, I'm weird." I didn't mean to sound rude. But a girl can only be teased so many times in her life before it turns annoying.

"My sister's the same. Eats everything plain. Drives our mom insane."

"We need to meet. I love her already," I joked, although honestly, I'd never met anyone that ate even remotely similar me.