We both burst into laughter. I link my arm in hers and we pile into our rideshare.
We sit in silence for the little time it takes to get back to my place. I let my forehead rest on the cool window, to ease some of the heat and the oncoming headache that’s sure to happen. Then next thing I know, I’m being nudged awake by Evie, telling me we’re home.
I shuffle out of the vehicle and we head inside. It feels weird being home without Winnie. He’s only been in my life for a short period, but that furry creature already fills my heart with so much joy. Once through the door we kick off our shoes and I lock the front door.
“I’m going to go get us some water.” Evie mumbles, shuffling in the direction of the kitchen. I head the opposite way to the bedroom. Walking into the en-suite, I quickly wash off my make-up and brush my teeth. I strip out of my clothes and pull the band t-shirt and shorts from last night back on. I pass by Evie, letting her get ready while I set up the TV.
Crawling under the duvet of my bed, I groan in satisfaction at the softness of the sheets. It feels like I’m being wrapped up in the warmest hugs when I cozy under them. I grab the remote, taking a moment to pull up a streaming app on TV while I wait for Evie. Grabbing my phone off the nightstand, I begin to scroll through social media. As I’m scrolling, I land upon a photo of a rustic bar top with two drinks on it—one with hues of red and a lime on the rim, the other holds a dark amber liquid. I instantly know these are our drinks from tonight, and my suspicion is confirmed when I see that it’s his account. He’d posted the photo with the caption: 'Here’s to new beginnings.’
I smile to myself, but let it quickly fade because Ican’tget my hopes up. It can’t mean anything. We literally just met.
But I can’t help the slight flutter my heart does when I thinkwhat if?
What if it becomes more?
Before I even know what I’m fully doing, I open my messages and input his contact. When I finish writing the message, I hesitate for a split second before muttering “fuck it.”
Harper: I don’t remember if I said yes to coffee
Ugh that was stupid. Before I can double down, telling him to ignore me, bubbles dance on my screen. Fuck. He’s typing, and before I can spiral further, my phone vibrates.
Xavier: Well, I don’t recall you saying no. So that must mean…
Harper: As long as you don’t mind my awkward word vomit about how hot you are, then when do you want to go?
Harper: Omg. Forget I said that.
Harper: Excuse me.
Harper: I’m just going to go change my name and skip town.
Xavier: Lol I think your rambling is adorable, and great for my ego.
Xavier: How about Thursday afternoon?
Harper: Sounds great! Should we meet at Ruthies?
Xavier: Sure, but let’s take our orders to go. It’s much easier to get to know someone when we’re walking or driving somewhere
Harper: You’re not going to murder me are you?
Xavier: Lol no. I promise
Harper: That sounds like something a murderer would say.
Xavier: I’ll see you Thursday, Harper. Have a good sleep.
Harper: Goodnight.
There is a heavy plop on my bed as Evie jumps into it, laying on her side facing me, with her hand holding her head.
“What was that smile about?” she asks incredulously.
“Nothing. Just making those coffee date plans.”
Evie squeals before she launches herself at me, a harumph leaving my body at the sudden contact. “I’m so proud of you! This is going to be the best revenge on that sleazeball!”
“Yeah, yeah. Now get off me!” I say, shoving her off.
