Auggie paused his typing, lifting his head as he sensed someone standing next to his desk.
"Hello Jai." He said rather tartly as he pulled off his headphones. "To what do I owe the pleasure."
"Cafe latte, half caf, one sugar, low fat milk, easy on the cream." Jai slid a cup to Auggie's hand. "And a chocolate chip scone, lightly warmed."
"I will repeat the question. To what do I owe this visit."
"A guy can't bring a friend a cup of coffee?"
"Sure. But number one, we aren't friends. And two, there is a cup of coffee and then there is batting your eyes and flashing your perfect smile at the baristas to find out an order I only treat myself to once a month or when I'm having a very very bad day and Happy Hour is no where in sight."
"Fine. How about I keep hoping we could be friends and it's been an all around bad week. And I need your help."
"Ah, finally the truth comes out. And no. I'm not helping you with Annie."
"Why do you think this has anything to do with Annie?"
"Really Jai. I'm blind, not stupid. I know you have the hots for her."
"And you don't?"
"That's none of your business. Regardless I'm not going to be your wing man. You want Annie, you are on your own. May the best man win." Auggie pushed the cup and bag away and reached for his headphones.
"Auggie, please." There was something in Jai's voice. It wasn't desperation but it wasn't his typical cool confidence either.
"What?"
"I know she blames me for Ben's death so she's not exactly talking to me at the moment."
"She doesn't blame you. But you were connected to him so you remind her of him. She was seriously in love with the guy and he died rather painfully in her arms. Reminders of that are not particularly fun. She'll get over it. In time. Just let her have the time."
"I'm not sure I can do that."
"Sure you can."
"I need help Auggie. Yours and maybe Annie's."
"What's going on, Jai?" Auggie was starting to worry. If whatever this was could shake Jai it was serious. This was not a guy that showed his cards, ever.
"Not here, Auggie. I need to talk to you somewhere else. And if you could bring Annie also."
"And if I don't. If I don't want to mix her up in anything else."
"That's your call."
"I'll think about it." Auggie pulled on his headphones and started typing.
Jai paused in the doorway as he heard a break in the typing. He looked over his shoulder to see Auggie pick up the coffee and take a drink. With luck, it was a good sign.