Chapter 1
Upon entering the café, Audrey heard the most exasperated sigh. Seeing a young woman struggling with multiple books made her wonder what she could be studying. Audrey helped the woman with her books and placed them on the table.
“Looks like you could use some coffee?” Audrey asked with a questionable smile.
Audrey couldn’t help looking at the woman that had gorgeous dirty blonde hair. Her eyes were a luscious dark blue that made Audrey melt instantly.
“What is all this for?” Audrey asked curiously.
“I’m in Med School to become an RN.” She replied.
“Oh, a Registered Nurse. Then consider this coffee on me.” Audrey responded smiling.
Audrey turned on her Spotify playlist and placed it on shuffle. Going behind the counter to make an Iced Caramel Mocha Coffee that only took about five minutes in between orders.
She was skimming through her books as Audrey placed down the coffee.
“Thank you. It is much needed with all this studying.” The woman said, smiling at Audrey.
“You are so welcome. Let me know if you need anything else.” Audrey replied, then made her way back behind the counter.
As more customers came in, Audrey still couldn’t help looking over at this woman. She wanted to know her name but being so shy didn’t help. If it was up to Callie it would have been done no problem.
Audrey’s relationship with Shane was long over and she hadn’t looked at anyone else the way she did that woman studying. Her body had the right amount of curves for a big woman. Her dark blue eyes sparkled in the right lighting. As soon as she smiled, Audrey was drawn to her in an instant.
Wiping off the counters, Audrey saw that she stood at the counter waiting on her. Placing the cup on the counter, the woman licked her lips, and left a five dollar tip.
“Thank you so much. It was so delicious.” The woman said grinning.
“You’re welcome. It’s what I do.” Audrey took the cup and tip.
She turned on her heels and walked back over to the table. Audrey couldn’t resist licking her own lips when she saw that woman. A moment later the bell dinged, Audrey’s attention was drawn to Callie, who walked in carrying the latest book she’d written tucked under her arm.
“This is an amazing book.” Callie expressed with excitement.
“Hello to you too.” Audrey said with a laugh.
“A Coffee Shop Romance is one of a kind story. I’m surprised it doesn’t sell much more than it has.” Callie replied with a smirk as she took a seat at the counter.
Audrey looked over Callie’s shoulder to see the woman still taking notes. Sighing Audrey going back to the conversation with Callie. Callie took note of the way Audrey was looking at the woman every chance she got with a raised eyebrow. Out of nowhere Callie leaned over the counter and grabbed Audrey’s shirt roughly making it look a bit out of place.
“What are you doing?” Audrey whispered trying not to raise attention to those in the café.
Callie winked. “You like her, don’t you?”
Audrey looked around making sure no one was watching including that beautiful woman. Lowering her head, she whispered. “You know I’m not looking to date anyone right now, it’s too risky.”
Callie let go of her shirt then nodded her head towards the woman. “Quit chickening out and go talk to her. Get her name. Make a friend. You need to smile again and have fun. Not saying you need to be laid or anything but you’ve been a lost cause since Shane did what she did and we aren’t discussing that. Just get to know her and see where it goes.”
“I know I do.” Audrey replied, staring at her. Her heart is beating wildly in her chest. The nerves of asking a woman her name was the last thing on Audrey’s list for the day. It’s one thing for small talk but going beyond isn’t normal.
She looked up from her books and our eyes met. Audrey felt a big lump in her throat that was hard to swallow, she stood up and walked over to Audrey.
“Your collar is crooked, here let me fix it.” She reached up and readjusted it properly.
Audrey’s legs beneath her felt like jello. Leaning to whisper in her ear. “By the way, my name is Alyson Peters.” With a wink. She turned, grabbed her books and walked out the door.
The work day passed in a blur. Callie hung around with Audrey, closing the shop being the last of the day. Audrey’s thoughts went to Alyson wondering if they would cross paths again. Just as Audrey was locking the door, a hand was on her shoulder.
“Holy hellfire.” Audrey said while turning around to see Alyson.
“So sorry to startle you, I think I left a book behind. Mind if I grab it?” Alyson replied.
“Audrey, I’m heading home. Contact me later.” Callie said with a wink and heading to her car.
Audrey opened the shop door back up and flicked back on the lights as Alyson went in. Standing in the doorway and watching. Alyson bent over to pick up her book that was on the floor. Audrey couldn’t take her eyes off of her for a moment. She stood up and turned around and Audrey instantly turned around so she didn’t see her, checking Alyson out.
“Thank you for allowing me to come back in and get it.” Alyson said.
“You’re very welcome.” Audrey replied, turning the lights off. Shutting the door. Alyson stood there and waited.
“You have never told me your name.” Alyson stated.
“Audrey. Audrey Kessler.” Audrey replied, locking the door.
“It’s nice meeting you. Thank you again for the coffee.” Alyson responded with a slight smile.
“You’re welcome. Will I ever see you again?” Audrey asked.
Alyson winked at Audrey. “Do you wish to see me again?”
“I would be honored. So, maybe I can try another coffee with you?” Audrey suggested.
“I will keep coming back as long as you are making delicious coffee for me.” Alyson winked at Audrey watching her turn a slight pink.
“I will continue to do so.” Audrey replied, still turning a bright pink.
Audrey watched Alyson as she walked to her car. Part of me desperately wanted to go after her and ask for drinks or something. Sighing knowing that wouldn’t happen it’s not the same as before when asking a woman out. Not after Shane treated Audrey. It still burned in the back of her mind.
Audrey got into her car and drove home. That night Audrey crawled into bed thinking about Alyson. Why did she have a hold on her? Why was she drawn to her in such a way? Audrey had no idea what was coming but all she knew was making coffee for Alyson would be a treat that she couldn’t wait to see what happens. Even if it meant seeing her everyday.








