The Stranger by the Window
210 Words
The morning rush had just begun. The smell of coffee filled the small café as Amara wiped down the counter, humming softly to herself. It was just another ordinary day — or so she thought.
She turned when the bell above the door chimed. A tall man stepped in, dressed neatly, with the kind of quiet confidence that made people notice him even when he wasn’t trying. He looked around for a moment before walking toward the window seat — her favorite spot.
“Good morning,” Amara greeted, trying not to stare too much.
“Good morning,” he replied, his voice calm and deep. “One black coffee, please.”
Something about his voice lingered with her. It wasn’t just polite — it was gentle, like he carried a story he didn’t talk about often.
As she prepared his drink, she couldn’t help but glance at him again. He sat by the window, sketchbook open, his pencil moving with careful grace.
When she placed the coffee beside him, their fingers brushed briefly. A spark. Small, but real.
“Thank you,” he said, smiling slightly.
Amara nodded, her heart skipping a beat.
She didn’t know his name yet. But somehow, she knew—this moment would change everything.
- Writer
