Cindy

I am back on track and today I decided to work in a coffee shop.

As I stood up to get my espresso, I saw a familiar face whom I haven't seen in years. She is wearing an orange sweater paired with basic jeans. Not the perfect outfit for this summer heat.

...

I almost dropped my notebook as I looked again to verify my image recall. I cannot believe this is happening. It is her. I thought she left the country. Perhaps she did and now she's back with a wardrobe malfunction.

Breathe.

The universe has decided. It's about time we meet again.

Sanity check. Time to grab my drink. Might offer her a smile.

...

"Hi Beth"

"Oh, hi."

...

I can sense her surprise as she paused, I assume, to try and assess where I could be in life. After an awkward 3 seconds, she finally gave back a smile.

A lot was said in both our silence.

...

4 years ago I left everything in the town I swore to build my empire. I buried my pain by pouring all my angst into my work. The process was nothing like they said but it was mine. 

...

Eventually, I was in paradise and the past did not even matter anymore. Seeing her was the healing affirmation I never thought I needed. Also,  my espresso tastes oddly flavorful today.

 

Beth

I just dropped off Leo to playschool. He'll be there for at least 3 hours. I can go home and come back but the traffic is terrible.

I decided to head out to Coffee Groove instead. While I'm in the block I'll also check if my laundry is ready. God, I wish I brought more clothes.

...

As I opened the door, the first thing I heard was "espresso for Cindy." Did I just hear the barista call out Cindy? I guess it's not Cindy…Cindy. I haven’t had news on her since she left corporate.

It's most likely not her.

As I was headed to my table, a familiar voice goes "hi Beth".

...

I immediately knew it was Cindy but somehow I couldn't recognize her. My brain is trying to connect the Cindy I know from the Cindy I am seeing right now. This version looks elegant in her flowy pastel dress. And is that an engagement ring? Oh my god! How will I respond?

...

"Oh, hi."

...

This is a strange reaction but I wanted to hug her. All these years I thought of her as an enemy but as it turned out, she is the only one who could understand the puzzle I am trying to complete. I wanted to talk to her...

 

I gave out a smile instead.