Chapter 2
"An iced americano," said the customer, his voice smooth and deep.
Nima looked up,to the familiar voice. Her heart skipped a beat, and she stuttered slightly with nervousness.
"A-an ic-iced americano?" she repeated, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
The customer nodded, his expression calm.
"Right away,"
Trying to steady her trembling hands as she prepared the drink, she couldn't help but glance at the man. He had sharp jawline, and smooth, glowing skin. His silky long golden hair flowed over his shoulders which complemened his face. He smelled sweet and floral, warm and comforting. Nima wondered what cologne he wore.
Every day after that, the man appeared at the café at the same time, always ordering an iced americano, she real realised that she began to look forward to his visits more and more.
One day, as the door squeaked open, Nima's heart leaped as she turned to see if it was the man that was entering. With a bright smile, she greeted him.
"An iced americano."
The man looked at her, slightly confused by her enthusiasm. "Ah, yes," he said.
"Here's your order,"
"Thank you," The man smiled at her
"Have a great day," Nima said, still smiling.
The man paused, his eyes softening. "You have a really beautiful smile. You should smile more often."
Nima felt her cheeks flushed as it was the first time anyone had ever complimented her
"Thank you,"
"Have a great day," said the man, turning to leave.
Just as he reached the door, Nima's nerves got the better of her.
"Wh-what's your name?" she blurted out loud, her voice trembled slightly.
"You don't have to tell me if you don't want to," she said laughing nervously.
The man turned back, a wide smile spreading across his face. "James."
"Huh?" Nima replied, confused.
"My name, it's James," he repeated, still smiling.
As he was about to exit the cafe, Nima gathered her courage and said out lout, "I am Nima."
James turned back once more, his smile growing wider. "I know," he said.
He pointed at the book on the counter. Nima's name was written on the cover. With that he exited the café, leaving her standing there with her heart pounding.
Nima placed her right hand over her heart, feeling it race with joy. A faint smile played on her lips as she whispered to herself, "Is this the feeling people call love? Is this how people feel when they fall in love, or am I just being delusional?"
The image of his warm smile stayed in her mind. The café seemed quieter after their conversation, she was filled with a new kind of energy. For the first time, Nima felt a special connection with someone, a spark that hinted at her dreams she had never dared to imagine.
Her interaction James made her feel something deeper. She felt a warmth in her heart and flutter of excitement she had never experienced whenever she thought of him.
As she got back to work, her mind kept on drifting back to james.