Asteria couldn't concentrate after Gavin left. Her thoughts were a whirlwind of dark hair, warm eyes, and that intriguing tattoo. She glanced at the clock; it was barely past five, but she decided to close the store early. She needed to satiate her curiosity. She grabbed her coat, scarf, and keys, and stepped out into the chill evening air. The streets were bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, and leaves crunched under her boots as she made her way to "Bound in Leather," the local bookstore nestled between a vintage clothing boutique and a quaint café.
The bookstore was warm and inviting, filled with the comforting scent of old books and fresh ink. Asteria wandered through the stacks, her fingers trailing over the spines until she found the section she was looking for: "Art and Design," with a smaller sign beneath it reading "Tattoos." She crouched down, scanning the titles, her mind filled with images of compass roses and mysterious strangers. She was so engrossed that she didn't notice someone approaching until a pair of worn boots entered her field of vision. "Looking for something in particular?"
Asteria's heart leapt into her throat as she looked up into the smiling face of Gavin. She stumbled slightly, steadying herself on the shelf. "You," she breathed, then quickly corrected herself, "I mean, yes, I'm looking for a book on tattoos." Gavin raised an eyebrow, amused. "Interesting. Any specific reason?" Asteria blushed, standing up. "I, uh, I noticed your tattoo earlier. It's beautiful. I wanted to learn more about them." Gavin's smile softened, and he held out a book he'd been holding. "This is a good place to start. It's got a lot of history, symbolism, and some amazing artwork." Asteria took the book, her fingers brushing against his again. She felt that same spark, like a promise of something more. "Thank you, Gavin." "My pleasure, Asteria," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. He paused, then added, "Would you like to grab a coffee? There's a great little café next door. We could discuss art, tattoos, or whatever you'd like."
Asteria's heart pounded in her chest. She wanted to say yes, wanted to spend more time with this enigmatic man. But something held her back. She bit her lip, then nodded. "I'd like that. "Gavin's smile widened, and he gestured towards the door. "After you." As Asteria walked out of the bookstore, she couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of something unexpected and exhilarating. The cool October air was filled with possibilities, and she was ready to explore them all.
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The café was warm and inviting, filled with the rich aroma of coffee and the soft hum of conversation. Asteria and Gavin settled into a cozy corner, their seats close together, knees almost touching. They talked about art, tattoos, and their shared love for the unusual. Time flew by, and before they knew it, the barista was announcing the café's closure. Gavin glanced at his watch and smiled. "Time flies when you're having fun, doesn't it?" Asteria nodded, gathering her coat and scarf. "It really does." "Let me walk you home," Gavin offered, holding the door open for her.
Asteria accepted, and they stepped out into the night. The streets were quiet, the air crisp. They walked in comfortable silence, their breaths visible in the cool air. Suddenly, a light drizzle began to fall, casting a shimmering veil over the dimly lit streets. Asteria looked up, her face illuminated by the street lamps. She laughed, holding out her hands, palms up. "I love the rain," she confessed. Gavin smiled, watching her. "Me too. It's like the world is washed clean."
The rain grew a little heavier, and they quickened their pace, they ducked into a near by restaurant. They sat down at a table close to a large window. Asteria didn’t even have a chance to look at the name of the restaurant. Once they sat down across from each other she looked at the menu before her; the restaurant was “Serendipitous”. How fitting she thought and laughed, leading Gavin to smile at her. He loved the way she laughed and her smile was beautiful to him.
He looked deep into her eyes as she looked up and their eyes locked. It was magnetic and it felt like he could read her thoughts. It was a wonderful, warm inviting feeling which was comforting. The restaurant was filled with other patrons, yet it was if no one else was around. Only the two of them in an almost magical haze.
A waiter broke the silence, and spoke up asking Asteria what she wanted. Then just like that they were back in the real world. Being slightly cold and wet, the first thing that came to mind was a cup of hot chocolate. Without looking at the menu she asked for one made from hot water, not milk of any kind. Then Gavin requested the same and the waiter left them.
They stayed for what felt like a few minutes but were really a few hours , talking about books and art primarily. They ordered an arrangement of varies desserts instead of a regular meal, at Gavin’s suggestion. Some classic cheese-cake and some Tiramisu, followed by two different sorbet mango and coconut. It was all very delicious and almost too much, yet they shared all of the desserts. There was soft music in the background which made it seam more warm, some how.