As usual, Paul Henderson was frantically texting away on his cell phone as he entered his favorite coffee shop. He glanced up periodically to ensure he didn’t collide with anyone. The tall, dark, handsome, well-dressed man was responding to emails from clients. Often the life of a freelance writer was hectic, but he wouldn’t want to earn a living any other way.
The line in the popular coffee shop was lengthy, men and women getting their morning pick me up so they could kick start their day. Paul glanced up to see how far he was away from the front and that’s when he saw the right profile of the woman, who captivated his attention.
The woman in question was gorgeous, she was two people away from reaching the area to order. Paul quickly made his move.
“Attention everyone before me. Whatever you’re ordering it’s on me,” Paul said cheerfully.
Of course, his announcement was appealing to all it applied to, including the woman responsible for such a bold move. Like almost everyone else, she glanced back to see who this generous gentleman was.
Paul proceeded to make his way to the front of the line and once there, he placed his order. He then moved down to the place to pay, pulled out his wallet, and removed three hundred dollar bills.
“This should cover all our orders but if not, let me know what I’ll owe you,” he said. “But if it is enough, you keep the change.”
The lovely young cashier took the bills smiling at Paul, who returned the gesture. He then moved down to where he’d pick up his order. As he stood waiting he glanced in the direction of the woman, who to his surprise was smiling and staring at him. He gave her a wave and she did likewise. Paul’s order came up. He grabbed his coffee and cream cheese bagel and proceeded to move towards a nearby table. He placed his items and his cellphone on the table and then took a seat.
After each customer received their order they thanked Paul for the kind gesture, to which he replied, “You’re welcome.”
“Thank you, my brother, for your generosity,” the woman who was responsible for the act of kindness said softly, she smiled afterward.
“You are welcome, my sister. Would you care to join me?”
“Sure.”
Paul jumped from his seat and pulled out the chair for the woman.
“Such a gentleman.”
“Contrary to popular belief, chivalry isn’t dead,” Paul said smoothly.
The woman sat down and placed her coffee and clutch purse atop the table. Paul quickly resumed his position and stuck his hand out towards the woman.
“I’m Paul Henderson.”
The woman took his hand into hers, “I’m Coco Crown. A pleasure to meet you, Paul.”
“The pleasures all mine, Coco.”
Paul’s cell phone was vibrating atop the table.
“Do you need to take that call?” Coco said.
“No, not really. It’s just a client. They’ll leave a voicemail.”
“I see. So, what is it that you do, Paul? If you don’t mind my asking.”
“Not at all, Coco. I’m a freelance writer.”
“Really!”
“Yes.”
“So am I!”
“Really?”
“Yes. Wow! Well, at least we know we have one thing in common,” Coco chirped.
“Two. We also both love a great cup of coffee,” Paul said cheerfully, he and Coco laughed afterward.
Thank you for taking the time to acknowledge my offering. I wish you all the best living life to the fullest has to offer.
I enjoyed the first part of the story. It has me captivated to want to read more!!!