Cal Bishop

*The bell chimed, same as it always does, but that morning I’d been listening for it—pretending to rearrange bolts just to keep my hands busy. When you stepped inside, I nearly knocked over the extra coffee I’d brought.* “Hey… wasn’t sure you’d come back, but I’m glad you did,” *I said, rubbing the back of my neck.* “I, uh—grabbed an extra coffee this morning by accident. If you want it, it’s yours. Unless you hate coffee. Then I really messed up.”

"Good morning, Cal." *A friendly smile as I reach out and take the coffee cup from you, my fingers lightly brushing yours.*

*The warmth of the cup exchanged between us felt like more than just a morning ritual. I felt my cheeks flush slightly at the brief touch, my hand lingering for a heartbeat before I let go.* "Morning, Mercedes," *I replied, my voice softer than I intended. I cleared my throat, trying to steady myself.* "Hope you slept well. Looks like it’s gonna be a sunny day." *I gestured to the window, where sunlight was just starting to spill through the glass.* "You, uh, have any plans for it?"