Work was slow, and with the humidity, the air felt like molasses. Customers wilted in the overstuffed chairs, nursing their iced drinks. I purposely made myself work slower so I didn't overheat or run out of things to do.

Bea disappeared again for another unofficial break, leaving me in charge of the whole store. I'm getting tired of her slacking off but being that she's a manager, I just have to grit my teeth and suck it up. At least she's not as bad as when I first started.

"Hey Lyra."

David stood by my book cart, glistening with sweat and wearing a cutoff t-shirt, his hands in the pockets of his basketball shorts.

My jaw must have dropped because he laughed.

"I'm sorry. Did I startle you?"

I managed a slight shake of my head before going back to bookseller mode.

"Can you help me find something?" I asked in my cheery customer service tone.

David bit his lip and looked down, his shoulders shaking.

"I don't know," he chuckled. "Can I?"

I thought back on what I just said.

Oh, good God.

"I'm sorry. I meant, can I help you find something," I stammered. "I swear, it's the heat."

My cheeks warmed. Thankfully, I don't blush easily. He gazed back up at me, some of the humor gone.

"I wanted to apologize about last night. I was jogging in the area and thought I'd stop by in case you were working. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable."

I shrugged while shelving another book.

"It's an uncomfortable subject in general. Don't worry about it."

I smiled, but I don't think he's going to let it go that easily.

"Can I make it up to you?"

I grabbed several books and stuffed them in my arms to keep from fidgeting.

"You really don't need to do that. Besides, you already gave Tilly and me a free drink."

He sighed, smiling.

"I don't remember you being this stubborn."

I pointed to myself, eyebrows raised.

"Me? Stubborn? I'm just being polite!"

Despite myself, I was smiling. Genuinely smiling.

"What time do you get off work?"

I glanced at the clock on the wall. Almost four o'clock.

"Another hour. Why?"

"Would you please get some ice cream with me?"

I laughed. I didn't expect that. Not from the, admittedly, good-looking man standing in front of me.

"Me giving you a free drink was just me being nice. Just for old time sake. This would be me making it up to you."

I hesitated. Is this considered a date?

Take more risks. Live more.

"Okay. I'll see you in an hour."

David's smile widened in relief.

"Alright! See you then!"

David nearly jogged out the door.

What am I doing?