In this scene of my novel, another opportunity presents itself to David.
Although he wasn’t a regular at this Starbuck’s, he didn’t want his feelings spilled all over for the amusement of others, like what had happened with the milk. He wanted to avoid further embarrassment at all cost. However, at the same time, he knew he couldn’t risk losing another opportunity to get her phone number. This was his moment to capitalize on a second chance. A chance he probably wouldn’t get again.
He fixed the sleeve on his cup and thrust his chest out. Holding his chin high, he boldly made his way over to her. Tacking closer to her table, he caught the title on the front page of the bound papers that she was reading.
“Eternity was in our lips and yes, bliss in our brows bent,” he quoted, resting his hand on the back of the chair next to her. He waited to see if she’d respond or look up. Nothing happened. His legs grew heavy and the palms of his hands became clammier by the second. Awkwardness handed David’s confidence a pink slip, but he refused to accept termination.
“May I join you?” he asked assertively.
With her eyes still on the paper, she answered, “If you don’t spill whatever you’re drinking all over me.”
“Good one.” he chuckled, greatly relieved. He sat down next to her and she finally looked up at him. His breath caught when their eyes met, but he managed to say, “Are you an actress?”
“An aspiring one. Are you an actor?” There was a half smile on her face.
He couldn’t tell if she was teasing him. “No. Studied English Lit in undergrad and a little in grad school. I enjoyed the classics. Antony and Cleopatra is one of my favorite Shakespeare plays.”
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Melvin Davis 