- Sting, An Englishman in New York
The first time they met was at a café.
It was a café just round the corner of the road leading to the hospital. It was purely a chance meeting.
He had to purchase a drink that morning, seeing that he did not get much sleep the night before and caffeine was necessary then.
She was just there for her usual morning cuppa and breakfast.
He had dropped by this café before, a few times, but not regular enough to be familiar with its patrons.
It was her first time there. She decided to try out the café just that morning.
When one says one needs a caffeine fix, one usually thinks of coffee. However, for both of them, tea is the more preferred drink. The soothing effect tea brings, the bittersweet taste it leaves, the scalding but comforting sips of tea are exactly what they need to chase the blues away.
That day was hot lemon tea day.
“Hot lemon tea to go!”The barista hands out the cup of tea across the waiting table. Their fingers brush against each other’s as they both reached for the same cup at the same time.
Apparently, it was hot lemon tea day for the both of them.
She looks up in surprise, and after seeing the awkward smile on his face, begins to smile warmly and lets go of her hold on the cup.
Just as he sees her letting go of the cup, he motions for her to take it first and insists upon waiting for the next one.
“You’re a perfect gentleman I must say. It really is a pleasure to meet you; I am Allison by the way. Ally for short.”She introduces herself before smiling and taking a sip of her tea.
“James Wilson. It was kind of you to say that. Well, I must get going, the hospital needs me.” Unconsciously, he rubs the back of his neck with his hand, a habit he reverts to when feeling uncomfortable. Taking the second cup of tea, he realizes that he felt uncomfortable not because of her presence, but because of the sudden want to stay and talk to her. Get to know her more, say something, anything just to see that smile of hers again.
She nods her head, her face showing perfect understanding. Waving slightly, she acknowledges his need to leave and proceeds to smile as he begins to walk towards the door.
Just before he exits out the door, he turns back and asks, “Will you be here tomorrow?”
She smiles and nods her head slightly, “It’s black tea latte day tomorrow.”
He smiles back at her and left.
That day, they both thought, “Tea really does chase away the blues.”
The second time they met was at the same café.
The same café that sparked off the many dates soon to come after.
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