I stand at the front counter, distractedly staring into space and reflecting on this, the last day of my employment at the coffee shop. I'm glad it's a closing shift β it's quiet and slow, only a young co-worker and I, and I don't have to talk much to him or to the few customers who have wandered in. It's almost closing time and aside from a few last minute tasks, we are basically done with our work for the night.
Deep in thought, I don't hear the door open and I'm startled when I hear a familiar voice greet me. "Hello Katie," you say with the Welsh accent and friendly smile that have both helped make you into my favorite customer. I break out into a wide smile, glad to see you. "Ian! I was afraid you weren't going to make it in tonight."
"What makes tonight such an occasion?" you ask, giving me a quizzical look.
"This is my last day," I frown. "You knew that...oh! you're teasing me," I say, my cheeks a little warm when I see you laughing.
"Oh yeah," Vincent chimes in, looking at you. "She's been wondering where you were all night."
I shoot Vincent a wicked glare, blushing furiously. "I just wanted to be able to say goodbye," I protest, too embarrassed to meet your eyes. I'm attempting to lean casually on the counter, my palms flat on the surface. When your hand briefly covers mine I am startled by the intensity of your look as I glance up into your eyes.
"I know it's your last day." you explain, removing your hand a little too quickly. "I wanted to be your last customer. So you won't forget me," you add, smiling shyly.
"I wouldn't!" I exclaim, getting your coffee. "And it's time to lock the door so you have succeeded in being my last." Stepping around the counter, my hand brushes over your arm on my way to the front door to lock it. "I'm glad you came." I say quietly, smiling up at you, your height somehow more obvious when we're on the same side of the counter. You follow me to the front door and I instruct you in a hushed voice, "Just wait outside a few minutes, okay? I'll send Vincent home in a few. I mean, of course, if you want to, " I stammer, aware of my presumption.
"It's all right, Katie. I'll be here." I look at you and nod, butterflies of nervousness and anticipation fluttering in my stomach. All these months of flirting with you have left me with a heightened excitement and your attitude this evening is doing nothing to dissuade me.