Ellie was manning the counter when her phone buzzed. She peeked at the screen and smiled. Max again.
Max:
Spill the tea. What's happening with Mr. Mysterious Coffee Shop Crush?
Ellie grinned and typed furiously:
Ellie:
OMG. Okay, so first: I accidentally dropped a tray of croissants right in front of him. Like, full dramatic slow-motion crash. Think 'movie scene meets slapstick.'
Max:
Classic! Was he impressed by your physical comedy or did he run away screaming?
Ellie:
He… laughed? Like a real laugh, not the polite "haha I feel bad for you" kind. I took that as a win.
She paused and then added:
Ellie:
But then I tried to be cool and asked if he wanted a caramel macchiato. He said, and I quote, "I'm more of a 'black coffee and deep thoughts' kind of guy."
Max:
Ah, the 'mysterious with a dash of philosopher' vibe. Got it.
Ellie giggled, shaking her head.
Ellie:
Yeah, but here's the kicker. He tried to impress me by ordering a "secret menu" drink that he totally butchered pronouncing. The barista looked like she wanted to cry.
Max:
So he's part coffee snob, part walking disaster. Sounds perfect.
Ellie:
Exactly. I'm officially smitten and terrified.
Max's reply popped up quickly.
Max:
If this turns into a rom-com, I want top billing for giving you emotional support via text.
Ellie laughed, feeling lighter than she had all day.
Ellie:
Deal. But wait. I gotta tell you what happened after.
She typed, fingers flying:
Ellie:
We were talking about movies and he recommended this indie flick. I was impressed… until he revealed he watches it because it has a talking squirrel. Like, his actual reason.
Max's emoji was a skull laughing.
Max:
That's both horrifying and adorable.
Ellie grinned, but deep down, a tiny seed of doubt was planted.
Ellie:
Yeah, adorable now. Wait till you hear the "truth."
She paused, then texted:
Ellie:
I think my crush might have a few quirks.
Max's reply was instant.
Max:
Storytime. Spill every sweet, weird detail. I'm here for the messy.
Ellie smiled at the screen, feeling a strange comfort. Maybe this anonymous guy was the only one who really got her.