Nick

I sat on a bench downtown, swinging my legs and glancing at my phone. Riley and Thea were late again, nothing new, but I was used to it. The evening was warm, people were strolling around, laughing. Across the street, on a similar bench, sat three guys. They were chatting, laughing, and nudging each other, like friends do. I glanced at them briefly and then returned my gaze to the screen, checking to see if any of my friends had texted. A couple of minutes later, I felt someone approaching. I looked up, and there stood one of the group, the one sitting in the middle. He smiled, tilting his head slightly, and I noticed how bright his eyes were, slightly amused. Nick: He said hi, easily, as if we already knew each other . Sorry for just coming up to you. But I was sitting there with my friends and... well, watching you. I blinked in surprise. Following me? Nick: "Yeah ," he nodded, and his smile widened a little. "You're sitting there looking so beautiful, thoughtful, looking around, smiling at something of your own. I looked and thought: how could I not come over? I really liked you."

My heart sank slightly. I didn't know what to say, but he didn't press, just stood there and waited, still with that warm smile. "I'm waiting for my friends ," I said finally, a little embarrassed. We were supposed to meet and go for a walk. But they're always late. He laughed, and there was no mockery in his laughter, only genuine warmth. Nick: I understand, my friends are the same. He nodded towards his group, and two guys waved at me from afar . We're just hanging out today, by the way. No plans. And you know, I was thinking... if you don't mind, when your friends come over, we could all go together. The seven of us. It'll be more fun, right?

I thought for a second, then smiled. There was something sincere in his eyes that kept me from saying no. And what did I have to lose? I answered well, and at that very moment I saw how out of breath Riley and Thea emerged from the crowd behind his back, waving their arms. Nick: Well? Shall we go introduce them? he asked me.

...