Caffeine Limelight
(Jackson Avery & Lexi Grey)
Introduction: Boy Meets Diner
Ripping the tip of another sachet, Jackson tipped a stream of salt onto the already growing pool on the diner bench. He cocked his head to the side when a moving figure caught his eye. A small smile graced his lips as he watched the petite lady before him, unaware of his gaze and intent with her work. He watched silently as she served each order meticulously, coffee pot in hand, always armed with small chat, each line specific for each customer. He flicked a stray grain of salt across the bench as he thought to himself. It did not surprise him that her caring demeanour had won over her customers. It certainly worked on him.
It was just a week ago that he had aimlessly strolled down the street in idle boredom, an hour too early for his job interview, his mind still uncertain on following through. He had been debating with himself since the day he had received the phone call. The secretary's voice rang loudly in his ears as she scheduled a suitable time for his interview. He had heard her voice one too many times before and that day. His head often felt cloudy after her phone calls and he needed to find some clarity amongst his indecision. Habit took over as he stepped out into the sunlight that day, he always felt free beyond the walls of any building. Outside, there was nothing to keep him boxed in. After what seemed like hours of idling, a rumble arose from his stomach. He turned his head in search of the nearest restaurant and spotted a simple diner, seemingly untouched by commercialisation, free of large billboards and branding. A second rumble from his stomach confirmed his decision. He soon found himself stepping into the diner; it was one step down from quaint but it suited his needs.
He chose the seat furthest away from the door, hoping to not be noticed as he assessed the menu and realised he was a dollar short of a decent meal. He decided to settle on the second cheapest meal when she took his order with eyes strong and fearless. He was just a customer, ordering eggs on toast, but despite the haze within his head, something had stirred within him. It disturbed yet warmed his heart. He picked up his wrist and flicked his eyes briefly at his watch before having to repeat the same motion once more. Any bystander would have registered the obvious. He was losing his concentration; his eyes were bewildered, uncertain, yet hopeful. Jackson entertained the idea of a meeting beyond today…one which escaped the cloudiness of this day, the pressure that waited ahead of him. But, as with many things of late, he knew it was just wishful thinking.
In his peripheral vision Jackson could see a figure approach him. He glanced up in time to meet her gaze, intent on flashing her his 100 watt smile, his looks had always served been an advantage; As they always say, first impressions do count. To his surprise, an oily-faced mug greeted his unexpected eyes. With a huge grin, the cook had appeared to take his order. "What can I get you lad!"
Jackson furrowed his eyebrows, suddenly speechless, he was positive that the cook was not conversing in English.
"What can I do for you boy?" asked the cook.
Jackson snapped out of his gaze and blinked his eyes profusely before answering, "Food, no, yes, food please. Coffee, no food, coffee…yes coffee."
He grinned sheepishly at the confused cook who shrugged and replied, "Coming right up."
Cradling his head in the nook of his arm, he smacked himself with his palm and uttered, "Dumbass".