Coffee and Love

Not Your Typical Start

“I’m so sorry for him.” Dan said, turning to look at his friend with disbelief. “Uh, give me a minute, I’ll find you some tissues or…something. I’m so sorry.” He ran off, his black shirt disappearing around the corner, leaving his disaster of a friend and myself alone in the corridor.

“This is a great first day.” I sighed “Is England always this dangerous?” I watched as Phil picked up the fallen coffee cups and threw them in the trash.

“Uh, no, not usually.” He admitted “Unless you’re around me and then you’re subjected to fits of clumsiness that lead to pretty girls being covered in coffee. Are you not from England?”

“No, I’m from America. The accent should’ve given it away.” I said, looking down at the ruined blouse that was currently burning a hole in my chest. I pulled the silk material over my head, ignoring Phil as he made a surprised squeak. “Relax, I’m wearing a camisole.” I told him, my brown eyes laughing at his discomfort.

“Uh. Here, take my jacket” Phil quickly shouldered off his sweatshirt and put it around me. “I really am sorry. I didn’t see you and Dan was telling this joke about llamas and I just…”He swallowed. “I’m Phil.”

“I know who you are.” I laughed, examining my soiled shirt and decided to toss it. There was no saving the red silk. “Even in America you’re famous. I love your videos.”

“Oh. Well this is more awkward now. I attacked a fan. I’m truly sorry.” Phil shook his head. “What has brought you here to the BBC headquarters all the way from America?”

“I got an internship working with Radio 1. When I applied I didn’t actually think I’d get it, being from the states and all, but they were impressed with me, so I here I am…covered in coffee.” I teased, looking over his shoulder to Dan as he rushed forward. “Thanks, Dan.” I said, wiping myself off then bending down to clean the floor.

“Oh, I’ve got that.” Phil said, bending at the same time and knocking his head into mine.

“Ow.” I jumped back, glaring at the boys in front of me.

“Oh my god! Phil, stop attacking the poor girl!” Dan shouted, his hand smacking his forehead. He looked at me and grinned sheepishly “Can we do anything to make this better? I’ve got some painkillers...or we can just kill Phil.”

“I object to this.” Phil muttered from his spot mopping up the ground.

“Actually, I’m really late now for meeting up with my supervisor.” I said, backing away from the boys. “This isn’t a very good way to start off my first day here. I hate being late.” I laughed awkwardly and hurried away.

“Just tell her it was Phil’s fault.” Dan called after me. “She’ll understand.”