Blue Bird

Chapter Two

The backend that was the name of the coffee shop. Recently opened, delivering freshly brewed coffee, the authentic way. It might've seemed too rustic for these days' edginess and so, not many visited.

A perfect place for Joe.

-From here on, you're only allowed to write here. Our meetings will be held here as well.

-I'll try...

-You will.

Louise demands are Joe's commands. It has been like that since day one.

-Of course, you will be interacting with the barista and the customers. I will check up on you and you must give me updates. You asked for references. A book cannot be born behind four walls with no inspiration whatsoever. Joanna, I believe in you. I know you will do great.

If not for Louise, Joe would have never published her first book. She stumbled on a page online and persistently contacted her till she agreed to meet.

That's Louise.

And so, The Backend has become Joe's sanctuary. Always sitting on the most isolated corner, trying to write.

Many males came to greet her every day. Her bright red hair was hindering her thirst for invisibility.

-Hello beautiful, is this seat taking?

-Hi...yes...I'm waiting for someone, she says while keeping her head down.

No one ever saw how she really looked. Her presence was as faint as the smell of a light rain shower on the morning.

Until Louise made a surprise visit.

-So, the updates. Show me your interactions of this week. Did you write anything on your "social journal"?

-Well...I've been trying to accustom myself to the place first...I have not actually talked to anyone yet.

No one would believe such a person wrote a bestseller young adult romance novel.

-Joe.

-I know, I know. This is for the book's sake. But it is not as easy as it looks. Please...I'll do my best but at my own pace.

Joe developed a fear to talk to others, she barely went grocery shopping and only interacted with others in the utmost necessity.

-Let's start slowly, shall we? Go grab me a cup of coffee, greet the customer that's ordering. Do not put your head down. Order, greet them then leave. Simple, right?

-Okay.

Joe stood up. Suddenly, she had this unknown willpower pouring out of her. She's about to greet a complete stranger, something she'd rather die than do.

-I'd like to order a cup of coffee to table ten, please.

-Noted! Replied the barista with a gentle smile. He's gotten used to her coming every day and does not get bothered by her standoff-ish attitude.

Now's the time. Joe turned her head to her right. A man was standing there waiting for his go-to coffee.

-Good morning. She said invoking all of her mental strength.

-Good morning to you too, he said.

As she was about to turn and head to her table. Suddenly, he grabbed her by her wrist.

-Excuse me, but... I'm not too sure but I think I accidentally bumped my shoulder onto yours last Sunday. Right in front of this coffee shop.

Joe utterly confused just stared at him.

-Of course, you do not remember. It's okay. I just wanted to apologize again.

-It's okay! My shoulder is fine so I won't sue she said in an attempt to sound funny but while not showing any expression on her face.

A slight chuckle was heard.

-My name is Eric. I've actually seen you quite often here. I mean...this is the first time I'm seeing your face but I've known it was you.

-The red hair, I presume...

-Yeah, it's hard not to notice. And...your name is?

-Joe.

-Nice to meet you Joe. I guess I'll see you around?

-Yes, you will.

Louise was in awe at the sight. Her eyes were sparkling and her legs kept shaking from excitement to see some social achievements from Joe.

Joe's mind went blank through the brief conversation she just had. Surprisingly, it was not scary. Eric looked her straight into her eyes during the entire time, yet there was no discomfort.

And so, was it the start for two souls into self-discovery and acceptance