A storm brews as distant thunder begins to rumble. The air tasted of wet pavement and mist as I walked along the sidewalk. The bright sun's light snuffed out behind a curtain of thick clouds leaving shadows in its wake. The weather-worn buildings line the downtown street with triangle shaped roofs and layers of grey patch shingles covering the walls. The signs with fresh paint jobs stick out like a sore thumb among the old buildings and age-old business signs. Thick wooden poles line the streets connecting the power lines with sagging wires and rusted over boxes.

As I walk toward the updated part of downtown, the old buildings shift to unique two-story buildings. Most of the buildings have been repainted white though few display their own unique color like sunshine yellow or blue. A handful are made of solid brick with white lined windows. Each front door decorated with various signs with large potted plants sitting outside it. I pass a red fire hydrant before pausing at the end of the block, glancing pointlessly both ways.

Unlike almost all cities, the city of Lasgum goes to bed at eight thirty.

A chilling wind sweeps down the street, rustling the trees and ringing the delicate windchimes hanging from Emma's Dress Alteration Shop. I walk quickly across the empty street out of habit as I shove my hands into my coat pockets. I slow once I reach the curb and look up at my destination already smelling fresh coffee grinds.

The Java Junction is quite the charmer for the younger audience. It used to be a tackle shop until they decided to move closer to the docks. Afterward, a young woman named Bailey bought it and transformed it into a cute coffee cafe and began the revival of our downtown area. It's two stories like the other buildings with its wood painted dark brown with side-long rectangular windows. A warm golden glow shines through the window leaving a warm feeling my heart as I open the glass door.

The tiny bells jingle once I pull it open. My senses are overloaded with the scent of bitter black coffee and hot caramel. I breathe it all in, relishing the delicious flavors as I walk inside.

Small glossy black tables are scattered through the room with a few customers in their regular spots. The walls are decorated with dark-framed pictures of fishing boats and aesthetic photos around town. In the back, a wall of cute coffee mugs and thermoses are on display along with patented coffee blends with the company logo printed in black and shiny gold. The cashier is manned by a smiling sixteen-year-old who talks excitedly to an older woman who looks equally as happy to talk to him.

"Saren!" Kiera smiles welcomingly from the table she sits.

I return her smile before walking over to her and Max. I sit down next to Kiera before nodding at Max. "Hey guys, hope you weren't waiting too long." I smile apologetically, "My paper took longer than expected."

Max groans as he begins to rub his forehead. "Don't remind me..."

"Ignoring it isn't going to help," I point out with a slight smile.

Max sighs loudly before slumping in his seat. "I'll do it later."

"So responsible," Kiera jokes, reaching across the table for Max's hand. Max glances up from his lap before taking her hand without a second thought. Kiera flashes him a smile, "Good thing I take care of that part for you."

Max smiles softly as he watches her. "I'm just here to remind you to relax. But you're cute when you get excited about schedules."

Kiera chuckles as she rubs his hand, leaning slightly on the table. "It's one of my joys in life. By the way, that planner you got me for my birthday last week was perfect. I just have to find a way to get you something so perfect... but I have to warn you, I'm terrible at buying presents."
Max shrugs with an indifferent look. "I don't really need a present. It's alright. Besides, even if you do want to get me something, you've got two months to figure it out." He smiles deeply revealing the dimples Kiera adores so much. "I'll be fine with anything."

I sit back in my chair and watch the two lovebirds flirt like they're in a Hallmark movie. I sigh softly trying my best not to look awkward or jealous. So instead of continuing to listen to their conversation, I glance back at the menu hanging on the wall displaying the different coffee styles and flavors. Reaching into my purse, I pull out my leather wallet before double checking that I brought money.

Although Max would pay for me since he's generous by nature, I would feel guilty for the rest of the time. Besides, he's here to hang out with Kiera, not me. I do appreciate Kiera trying to include me in more activities they do together since they hang out more than we do now, but I already feel bad for budging in on their dates. Usually I come up with an excuse to avoid coming to make things even worse but I don't want to make Kiera feel bad either.

In short, I've become the third wheel.

I'm truly happy for them and I wish them the best of luck, though I do miss my best friend. It's an odd type of jealous I've never felt before. None of my close friends has ever dated someone before which throws me into unknown waters. I know I need to be supportive which isn't difficult because they are made for each other, however, I still wish for my best friend back.

On top of that, I've begun to feel jealous for their relationship. Granted I've never dated anyone before nor plan to until after college, I find a part of me wishing for someone to hold and to love. Sadly, life isn't a Hallmark movie. Or perhaps that's a good thing. If life were a Hallmark movie then we'd all be in love and constantly breaking up with people for a "better" person without truly committing to someone.

"Hey do you guys want coffee now?" Kiera finally asks, beginning to stand up.

I nod eagerly as I stand up as well. "Sure, what are you guys thinking?"

"The usual," Kiera answers as always.

"You should try something new," Max teases as he rounds the table. He lightly jabs her side causing her to shriek before smacking his hand away.

I only laugh acknowledging Kiera's obvious weakness to tickling. But the thing is, it's mine as well so we made a pact not to tickle each other till we drop because both of us would be dead in the end. We made that pact when we were in 1st grade and to this day we live by it. Though we do have "accidental" jabs to the stomach from time to time.

My heart pangs with jealousy and sadness. I miss that, why can't she stop being so head-over-heels for Max? Instantly, I mentally scold myself for being so shallow. She's happy meaning I'm happy. That's all that matter. Even so, I've never been a fan of change.

Together, we walk up to the cashier and stare blankly at the menu for a minute or two. Finally, Max is brave enough to go first and order for himself and Kiera. For him, a small green matcha tea and for her, the bitterest black coffee imaginable. I order a iced peach tea knowing better than to order caffeine at nine o'clock at night.

Kiera and Max sit back down again after I offer to keep an eye on the drinks, despite the fact I don't need too. I feel oddly depressed hanging around them. I feel embarrassed for coming and interrupting their coffee date even after Kiera and Max invited me to come. It's only natural to feel that way. Why can't things go back to the way they were?

I stare out the window watching the rain begin to pour from the brewing clouds. The grey streets begin to dot with rain before turning completely dark with puddles in the uneven spots. Gusts of wind blow stray leaves across the empty street. The windows on the wooden buildings appear to weep as trails of water run down the sides creating large dark streaks of rain. The rogue trees turn dark and soggy as their leaves become vibrant green against the dark background.

I yawn softly feeling tiny tears prickle my eyes. I wipe my eyes, leaving them closed beginning to zoning out. I listen to the sounds of the espresso machine and the delighted chatter from the other customers. In the background, indie music plays giving the cafe a fresh feeling. I lean back against a table as my eyes remain closed beginning to feel the effects of midnight study periods take its toll. It's been days since I've had a good night's sleep. I can't believe I've been going on like this.

"Max and Kiera!"

I snap out of my daze, blinking a few times before looking over at the pick-up counter finding the two cups waiting. I pick them up gently, careful not to spill, and walk back to my friends.

"Thanks Saren," Max says as he takes his drink.

"Thanks!" Kiera takes her drink before standing up. I watch her in surprise but take a step back so she can fully come out from her chair. Kiera only smiles at me. "I'll wait with you." She turns to Max with an amused look. "Max, stay," she commands in a baby voice.

Max snorts loudly before waving her off. "Yeah, yeah I got it." Then he smirks at her, taking a sip of his tea.

Kiera smiles warmly at him before turning to me with a bright look. "Let's go."

We walk back to the pick-up counter near the window and wait in silence for a few moments. Kiera finally turns to me with a worried expression. "Are you doing okay? You seem kinda down tonight."

I shrug trying to appear indifferent knowing I can't tell her the truth. "I'm just tired. I've had a few late nights in a row so... yeah."

Kiera gives me an unconvinced look. "I know you too well, Saren. What's really going on? Is it about Max?"

I shake my head, "Not him." Not exactly.

"Me?"

"No, not you."

"Us?"

"No."

"Lately you've been so down," Kiera continues as her gaze is caught by the rain outside. "You never can hang out anymore-"

"I'm busy," I lie quickly feeling only a twinge of guilt for it. "It's not because I don't like hanging out with you guys."

"Then what is going on with you?" she asks directly, finally turning to face me. She gives me a pleading look before taking a step toward me. "We're best friends, don't we tell each other this kind of stuff?"
"Of course," I answer defensively, "but sometimes things change." I bite my lip, scolding myself for letting that slip. "I'm sorry."

"You don't need to be sorry," Kiera answers like she always does when I apologize for everything. "And what do you mean things changed? We're still amazing friends, we hang out all the time, what's different?"

I remain silent, avoiding her gaze feeling ashamed with myself for even thinking it.

My name is called and my tea is placed on the counter. I pick it up gently before taking a straw.

Kiera continues to wait for an answer.

I sigh giving her a pleading look. "Can we not do this here? Everyone's listening..." I trail off edgily as I look around. The other customers still absorbed in their phones or conversations despite my slight anxiety. It's weird to have to talk so openly in public anyway...This type of conversation is private and should be done far away from others.

"Then when?" Kiera asks softly, "You're always busy nowadays."

I grimace at her hurt expression. "I didn't mean to make you feel bad...I'm sorry."

"You didn't do anything," Kiera argues, "don't apologize for expressing your emotions."

"I wish I could be so confident," I mumble under my breath.

"You're getting better," Kiera encourages me with a slight smile. "Confidence is something that needs to be built up again. You're getting there."

"Thanks," I sigh before taking a sip of the iced tea. The thick peach syrup settles heavily at the bottom of the glass cup before fading into lighter tones of orange creating a sunset effect. Tiny carbon bubbles rise to the top of the tea signifying that it's sparkling. The ice cubes clink softly together as I move the cup.

"And... you know you can tell me anything, right?" Kiera asks seriously now. "If anything's ever bothering you I'm here for you."

"I know." I offer her a smile placing my hand on her wrist. "And I'm so grateful for that. It's just I don't want to talk about it... in public." I grimace as I look around the room again.

She nods in understanding. "Yeah, I get it. Then... maybe tonight? Do you think you can stay over?"

"I think so," I answer beginning to lighten up. Just us. It'll be just us. "Should I just borrow your clothes again?"

"Of course," she answers brightly. "We still have your extra toothbrush so it'll be fine."

"Great." I smile warmly at my friend wondering if everything will turn out okay. Maybe if I just talk to her about it then she'll understand. I'm not sure what we could do to fix this but maybe she can help me talk it out. Everything feels better after talking to Kiera. She is such a great listener. She's the only friend that listens to me in return. Most of my other friends talk about their troubles and feelings but never leave time for me to do the same. Kiera and I have a trade-off and a strong sense of trust. We listen to each other which is more special than anyone could ever know.

I turn around sharply only to yelp when I hit something.

Someone.

Scalding coffee splashes onto my chest and wrists causing me to cry out in pain. I jerk back suddenly with tears in my eyes from the stinging on my skin. I stumble back against Kiera with wide eyes. Standing before me is a scrawny looking boy with giant eyes filled with equal pain. He grimaces as he quickly sets the coffee mug on a nearby table before trying to wipe his hands on his jeans.

"I-I'm so sorry," he rushes with panicked eyes. "I didn't see you there! I'm so sorry for-," he winces, "that."

I suck in a sharp breath forcing my anger to simply shimmer instead of boil over. "Oh my gosh, are you okay?" Kiera rushes as she frantically grabs at a napkin holder on the table. She hands me a few before trying to wipe the burning coffee off my neck. I hiss silently in pain as I watch the boy warily.

"It's okay, I didn't see you either," I answer tightly from pain.

"I'm really sorry," he repeats as he grabs a few napkins for himself. I glance down at the ground realizing he dropped his backpack and his jacket. Splatters of coffee cover his shirt and parts of his pants. "This burns like hell," he comments flashing me an apologetic look. "I should have been looking where I was going."

"You're fine," I reply indifferently as I grab another napkin. I wipe off my hands noting the red spots appearing on my skin. I begin to rub my shirt only to shudder as a searing hot drop of coffee drips down my stomach. I force out a laugh before shaking a humorous look with Kiera. "I guess now I really have to borrow your stuff for tonight."

Kiera laughs as well with a slight nod. "Yeah, guess you do." She turns to face the boy before scanning over him. "Are you okay?" she asks neutrally.

He nods quickly as he takes a few steps back. He rubs his shirt before giving up and balling up the napkins in his fist. "I'm fine." His nervous eyes flick across me before biting his lip in mortification. His cheeks begin to pink as he takes another step back.

"Do you guys need any help?" Max asks worriedly, jogging up to us.

"I'm fine," I answer quietly as I set my tea down on the table. My hands are already sticky from the spilled coffee and tea.

"Let's go to the restroom," Kiera suggests as she scans my red hands. "Cold water helps with burns."

The boy winces as he picks up his backpack, "I'm really sorry, Saren."

I look up in surprise, wondering how he knows my name. But I quickly shake it off. He probably heard Kiera say it earlier. He picks up his wet mug and turns away leaving his jacket on the floor. My eyes widen briefly before I bend over and pick it up. It's quite an expensive winter jacket with the brand my dad loves to use. He uses it on his ice-fishing trips and is able to keep warm for hours on end. Kiera and Max flash me a confused look before I'm already walking toward the boy.

"H-Hey!" I call out awkwardly, "uh, you forgot your jacket!"

I glance down at the grey jacket before slipping my hand inside it feeling the soft material lining the inside. Briefly, I feel something slippery inside causing me to make a face but I quickly realize it's the plastic type material in the arms. However, this feels a bit different...

The boy freezes at the door of the cafe before looking back in surprise. His eyes flick to my hands before he begins to pale. He quickly rushes across the cafe before reaching out almost snatching it from my hands. But he catches himself and leaves his hands hovering above the coat. I blink a few times at him before handing the jacket back to him.

"You left it on the ground," I explain slowly, "I-I just didn't want you leaving it or something..."

His eyes widen in horror as he takes the jacket carefully in his hand. His blush begins to deepen seeming more embarrassed than before. He takes a few nervous steps back before forcing a smile at me. "Uh thanks." His voice hitches for a moment before he clears his throat. "That would have been bad."

I nod shortly before turning away from him and walking back to Kiera and Max. I make a weird face wondering why he was acting so weird. Maybe he's still embarrassed about the coffee... I'd feel terrible if I spilled burning hot coffee on someone. I hear the boy walk away behind me before the door bells jingle loudly. Then the door slams shut.

Max makes a face before shaking his head. "That guy was weird."

"Agreed," I reply with a sigh. I glance down at my stained clothes slightly resenting him for spilling coffee on me. I know it wasn't his fault, however, I don't appreciate being burned.

"Come on, let's get your hands under cold water," Kiera announces before linking her arm in mine. She glances back at the cashier who finally noticed the accident and is fumbling with napkins to help out, though the moment already passed.

"Could you get her another peach iced tea? Sparkling?" Kiera asks over her shoulder, "she spilled most of it."

The cashier nods quickly before fixing me another drink.

"Thanks!" she calls as she leads me to the restrooms in the back.

I lean against her shoulder as we walk toward the back. "Thanks," I tell her quietly. I begin to feel stupid realizing it's partly my fault for getting burned. I should have been looking where i was going...

"No problem," she answers breezily. "Besides, what are best friends for?" She offers me a smile in order to cheer me up.

I smile back despite my dampened mood. "Right."

With that, we walk inside the restroom finding it's one room with one toilet and a lock on the door. I run my hands under the icy cold water, shuddering for a moment before feeling a rush of relief as the burns begin to cool. Kiera sits on the toilet silent for a few seconds. I glance over at her as I adjust the water to be colder. "What?" I ask as she stares at me.

Kiera breaks into a smug smile. "You two would look good together," she comments vaguely.

I give her a weird look, "What? Who?"
She holds her hands in her lap before giving me an obvious look. "You and that boy. You guys would be cute together."

I scoff before shaking my head. "I don't think so."

"Why not?" she asks curiously, "He looked pretty cute?"
I give her a look, "I don't judge on looks."

"He seemed sweet," she continues lightly. "A little shy but I think he was just freaked out he spilled coffee on you."

I slightly roll my eyes as I watch my red hands. "He was just being polite..."

She shrugs, "Maybe... but he was blushing."

"Again, he was freaked out that he spilled coffee on me," I answer immediately, "it's nothing more than that."

"You're so oblivious," Kiera jokes as she begins to laugh. "You know, after being single all your life, aren't you ready to start dating?"

I shake my head as I turn off the water. I yank a few brown paper towels from the dispenser before gently wiping my stinging hands off. "After I graduate college I'll be ready. I have things I need to do before I get married. It's just extra drama I don't need right now." My voice sounds a bit harsh but it's the truth. I want to travel. I want to have my own life for a little while before I commit to someone. Marriage isn't a horrible thing but I don't think I'm ready for that. Maybe later. But not right now.

Kiera raises an eyebrow at me. "Drama?"

I grimace before flashing her an apologetic look. "Sorry, sorry, I didn't mean for it to come out that way. What I mean is that I have a thing I want to do before that. I want to be single for a little while to get myself sorted out for adult life. I don't want to be so focused on being an adult and end up pushing away my boyfriend. I just-"

"You take things slow," she finishes for me with an understanding look. "I know. But sometimes... it's healthy to take a risk. You know me, I have to plan out everything in my life for it to be alright but when Max came... he taught me that life isn't about plans going right. It's about adapting and making the most of things when the plans go wrong. Dating the right person teaches you that... you learn new things about yourself and your partner. Maybe it's time for you to take that next step."

My heart recoils feeling defensive at her words. I know that. But I'm waiting for the right moment. On top of that, I have never received attention from guys. Kiera was the one everyone adored. It's easy for her to say go find someone to date because everyone wanted to date her. But I never had that. I don't I ever will.

Instead of arguing with her, I answer with "maybe" and begin using a wet paper towel to wipe off my forearms.

It's easy for her to say that when she already has a boyfriend. Despite my bitter mood, I do appreciate Kiera's advice. I know she's only trying to help. I think she knows I'm feeling lonely as well, and getting a boyfriend might solve that. Though I've considered that many times, I still feel wrong to use someone as a rebound when my own best friend is busy. I just want to wait until I'm ready. Someday. It's not like I do anything else.