Modern, Soulmate AU drabble
Belle knew she was an intense reader. She could get so completely absorbed in a book that everything else around her faded away; there were times when she wouldn't even hear her own name being called. Still, she never thought reading would cause her to almost miss out on meeting her soul mate.
Normally on a rainy Saturday she would just stay at home, curled up on her own couch with her latest book. But on this particular day, she felt the urge to go to her favorite coffee shop and settle down on one of their couches instead.
Because of the rain, it wasn't too crowded, so she was able to get her favorite spot in a back corner. Once she had her tea and a muffin, she settled back and eagerly opened the book.
She read for a good two hours, eyes never leaving the printed pages, despite the noise of the coffee shop. One of the baristas dropped a tray of plates at one point, but Belle didn't even flinch. Her mind was focused solely on her book, and nothing else.
She only set her book down once, and that was so she could run to the restroom. But when she returned to her corner she found a small, folded piece of paper resting on top of her book.
Instantly curious, Belle picked it up and slowly unfolded the note.
I have never seen someone so engrossed in a book before, and I have to admit that it has me even more curious about you. It must be some book for you to not feel the pull that I'm feeling. So, when you're ready…look up.
A frown creased her forehead as she read through the note a second time. What on Earth…?
Lifting her eyes from the paper she scanned the shop for some sort of clue. And then, suddenly, there he was. Sitting at a table by the window was her soul mate. It was just as everyone said it would be; one look and she instantly knew. It was as if she could suddenly see the red string of fate that connected them and that had slowly been leading them to one another.
Her book now utterly forgotten, Belle slowly made her way over to his table. She had to clear her throat before she could manage even a simple, "Hello," but after that something just clicked into place. "I'm Belle."
"Belle," the man repeated, seemingly savoring her name. He gave her a brilliant smile as he held out his hand. "I'm Adam."