Forgotten

Chapter 11

Chapter title: Perfect Girl, Poison Boy

Jacin POV

I arrived at the coffee shop a few minutes early, a strange buzz of excitement running through me. It wasn’t like my usual gigs—this felt different. Simpler, maybe. More honest. As I stepped inside, the warm scent of roasted beans hit me, and the old lady behind the counter smiled brightly, already holding out a steaming cup.

“I made you coffee and a sandwich,” she said, motioning for me to sit. “Eat and drink first. Then we’ll talk about what I expect from you.”

She had this way of mothering me that made something tighten in my chest. If I’d ever had a grandmother, I would have wanted her to be just like her. Kind, blunt, and sharp as a tack. I sat down at one of the small tables and took a grateful sip. The coffee was strong. Comforting.

She joined me with a knowing look in her eye. “I found the perfect girl for you.”

I blinked, startled. It sounded like something out of a sitcom—a grandmother trying to set up her wayward grandson with a nice girl from the neighborhood. I had told her about Alysson, about the girl I’d been chasing. So why was she talking about someone else?

“I found my mystery girl,” I said, hoping to steer her back to reality. “We’re going on a date tomorrow. I even saw her this past weekend.” Her eyes sparkled with mischief. “Okay, but when that doesn’t work out, I still found the perfect girl.”

I stared at her, dumbfounded. “Why do you think it won’t work out?”

She shrugged like it was obvious. “Because you barely know her. You chased a romantic fantasy around this city, and now that you’ve found her, the chase is over. Then what? That kind of whirlwind doesn’t always last.” I didn’t reply. She must’ve seen the flicker of doubt cross my face, because she barreled on.

“Anyway, back to my girl. She came in the other day—so polite and sweet. Didn’t order any of that poison, unlike her rude friend. She’s just what you need to get on the straight and narrow.”

I laughed, incredulous. “You’re talking about a customer. You met her once, and you want me to give her my number? How do you even know she’ll come back?”

“Oh, they always come back. I don’t have many customers, but the ones I have are loyal. Her friend’s a coffee addict like you. I even made her your drink—told you, she’ll be back. You only met your mystery girl once, too. Look how that turned out.”

She wasn’t wrong. But still—I wasn’t interested in her so-called perfect girl. My eyes and heart is set on Alysson.

This past weekend had been one of the best I could remember. Spending time with her felt effortless. She was radiant—more than just pretty, more than just rich. I wanted to hold her again, kiss her again. The memory of that first kiss still lingered on my lips.

Knowing I’d been her first made my chest tighten. She was flustered and sweet, and it felt good to be wanted by someone so genuine.

I’d never dated someone that is still in school—hell, I barely dated at all. Not seriously, anyway. A few flings. Nothing like this. Alysson made me want to know everything about her. Her dreams, her fears. What made her laugh. An heiress with a work ethic and a complicated family she didn’t like to talk about. That part still confused me. If I had a family, I’d never shut up about them—even if it was just to complain.

“I want to be with Alysson,” I said simply. “But thanks for looking out for me.”

She waved me off. “I’ll still introduce you. No harm in that. Now eat up. I’ll show you how the coffee machine and register work. I’ll be in the back baking, but I’ll come out when I hear the bell—only for today. Tomorrow you’re on your own.”

“Thanks for this opportunity,” I said sincerely. “I know it’s my first day and I’m already asking favors, but… can I leave a bit early tomorrow? I need to pick Alysson up from school.”

She raised an eyebrow. “See? Already a bad influence. But fine—you can leave at 14:30. Just this once. Plan your dates better next time. Also, shame on you. Wasting your time with schoolgirls.”

I groaned. “I didn’t know she was still in school when I met her. Her family’s out of town until Wednesday, and she asked if we could do the date before then. I got the feeling her parents wouldn’t be thrilled about her dating me.”

Her eyes narrowed. “Shame on you. Taking advantage of a girl while her parents aren’t home? I should’ve known you were trouble—with your poison and your dangerous machine—”

“It’s not like that,” I interrupted quickly. “She’s not sneaking around to be reckless. She’s scared of them. And… I don’t know the whole story, but I get the sense they wouldn’t approve of anyone, let alone someone like me.”

She sniffed. “Sounds like you’ve got a new poison, and it ain’t coffee. It’s this girl.”

“She’s turning eighteen this year. She’s not a little girl.”

“Just barely legal. Got it. Finish your food.” I sighed, choosing not to argue. I had a feeling this job was going to be more difficult than I’d anticipated.

After eating, she walked me through the basics. I picked it up fast, and she seemed pleased. Soon she disappeared into the back, leaving me alone in the quiet shop. I pulled out my phone, debating if I should text Alysson. She was probably done with school by now, maybe heading off to do a review or back home.

It’s weird, the early stage of a relationship. You have to figure out how the other person fits into your life—and you into theirs. Her friends, her schedule, her family. I’d already met her friends. I wasn’t planning to introduce her to mine anytime soon—too rough around the edges. She’d probably hate them.

I wondered if she’d ever introduce me to her family… or if that was completely off the table.

Alysson POV

We went back to my house to get dressed. Liara hadn’t been over in ages, and it felt good to have her here again. The guard let her in without fuss—thankfully, Lyssa wasn’t home to make it an issue. Liara borrowed some of my clothes and we opted for comfort: leggings, oversized tops. No heels, no dresses. This wasn’t a fancy review. Just a casual stop.

Liara was quieter than usual, probably stressed about the upcoming exams. She always overdoes it—sometimes to the point of making herself sick. I figured the coffee would help bring her back to life.

The parking lot was empty when we pulled up. This place could definitely use more marketing. Hopefully, my review would help. But as we stepped inside, I froze.

There, behind the counter, stood Jacin.

My heart stuttered. If we hadn’t bumped into each other at the supermarket, I would’ve met him here. It was like fate wanted us to cross paths.

“Ah! There she is—my perfect girl!” the old lady called out. “Come meet Jacin. He’s my new employee. You should give him your number. He needs someone to set him straight.”

I blushed furiously.

“That’s Alysson,” Jacin said, stepping forward. “The girl I told you about.”

The lady’s eyes darted between us, realization dawning. “Oh! You’re already together. Well, isn’t that something! Go on, then.” She turned to leave but called over her shoulder, “She doesn’t pay for anything—the poison seeker does! Don’t screw this up, boy!” Jacin flushed slightly, which made me feel a lot better.

“I thought I was too young and she was just a little girl?” he called after her.

“That was before I knew she was the perfect girl! Alysson, get him off that poison and away from that dangerous machine. And maybe fix his wardrobe while you’re at it!”

I laughed nervously, standing awkwardly near the door while Jacin watched me. Then he smiled—and I couldn’t help but smile back.

“Aren’t you two just adorable,” Liara deadpanned. “Now where’s my coffee?”

I elbowed her for the tone, but Jacin just chuckled.

“What’ll it be, Liara?” he asked, finally looking away from me.

“Strongest thing you’ve got. Double it. I’ve got enough studying to last a lifetime.”

He nodded, then turned to me. “Does that mean you’re going into study mode too? Should we reschedule our date?”

I looked into his eyes, heart fluttering. “No, I’ll be ready tomorrow.”

I scanned the menu. “Can I get the lavender tea, please? And the berry shortcake cookies. Oh, and some ginger and choc-chip cookies to go.”

“You here to do a review?” he asked. I nodded. Normally, I’d keep it to myself so I’d get treated like any regular customer. But it was Jacin. He knew.

“Review?” the old lady popped out again, clearly eavesdropping.

“I thought you were baking,” Jacin said, raising an eyebrow.

“Just making sure you’re not screwing this up,” she replied with a grin.

“Is it okay if I do a review of your shop?” I asked. “I loved it last time and wanted to come back.”

“For the perfect girl with actual taste? Anytime. You’ll appreciate the finer things—unlike these poison junkies.” She disappeared again. Jacin handed me my tea with a soft smile.

“You can sit—I’ll bring the rest.” It felt weird seeing him here, serving me. I couldn’t stop sneaking glances. I barely heard Liara’s complaints.

“If you keep staring, he’s going to catch fire,” Liara muttered.

I blinked. “Sorry.” She just grinned. “It’s fun seeing you like this. So cute. Total silent crush.”

“Shhh! He’ll hear you.”

“He knows. Trust me—he’s looking at you every time you look away. I’m seriously falling asleep here waiting for coffee.” Just then, Jacin appeared with our drinks and snacks. His curls fell over his eyes as he leaned down. He placed my tea in front of me, then lifted his gaze.

“I want to kiss you,” he whispered.

My breath hitched. “I want you to.”

He leaned in and kissed me—quick and soft. But it left my heart pounding.

“No special treatment just because you’re on kissing terms with the reviewer,” Liara teased.

“I still want my coffee. No kissing necessary,” she added with mock seriousness.

I laughed and turned to taste the treats. They were incredible—like love and magic in every bite. I took pictures of everything, hoping they’d tempt others to visit. By the time we were done, I was full and happy—and still watching Jacin.

“You can eat, can’t you?” he joked as I grabbed more to go.

I blushed furiously.

“I like it,” he added, softer. I paid and we headed to the car.

“So… you have a date tomorrow?” Liara asked, nudging me. “Why didn’t you tell me earlier?”

“I didn’t even think about it. It all feels so new. But yeah—he’s picking me up after school. On his bike.” She gave me a grin. “Your first real date. You must be so excited.”

I smiled to myself.

I was.