Brian's gaze settled on a blonde girl who had just stepped into the cafe he frequented every morning before work. He was certain he had never seen her before. New to the area, maybe.
As if sensing his attention, she turned.
Their eyes met just for a second.
Then she looked away and walked up to the cashier to place her order.
Brian almost stood. His body leaned forward, ready to move, but something held him back. Still, his eyes never left her.
When she finished ordering, she took a seat not far from the counter. Brian watched as her gaze flickered between the exit and the cashier, like she was waiting… or thinking about leaving.
And when he was sure she wouldn't stay long, he finally got up.
"Hey?"
The girl turned slightly, looking up at him as he approached.
"I know this might sound weird," Brian said, a hint of nervousness slipping through, "I don't usually do this. But I think you're really beautiful, and I'd like to get to know you. Can I have your number?"
She blinked, clearly caught off guard. Her brows pulled together just a little.
"I'm sorry… I don't think I'm comfortable giving my number to a stranger."
"Right… yeah," Brian let out a small breath, forcing a smile, "That's fair. Uh, hmm, my name's Brian." He held out his hand.
She didn't take it. Just looked at it.
"I'm not a bad person, I promise," he added quickly, his tone still calm despite the flicker of frustration underneath.
A pause before she reached out and took his hand.
"Angel..."
Brian smiled, "Pretty much describes your angelic face."
A faint flush crept across her face, though she tried not to show it.
"Can I sit with you?" he asked.
"I'm actually just waiting for my coffee."
"Oh… okay," He hesitated, then tried again, "So can I get your number, Angel? We are not strangers anymore after all."
"Miss Angel!" the barista called.
She glanced over her shoulder, then stood, before walking away, she gave Brian a small, polite smile.
He stayed where he was, watching her, patiently waiting.
A moment later, she returned, stopping right in front of him.
"I'll give you my number," she said, her lips curving slightly, "if we meet again."
There was something in her tone, light, almost playful, but not quite, "It was nice meeting you, Brian."
Brian smiled back, his eyes following her as she walked out of the cafe.
He waited a few seconds.
Then he stepped outside and caught sight of her again, just ahead, blending into the crowd. And without thinking, he followed her.