Daddy's Best Friend

37

37

SOPHIA’S POV

I hustled through my morning routine, the promise of a hot cup of Starbucks coffee became my beacon of hope. The college grind had a way of leaving me perpetually sleep-deprived, and caffeine was my trusted ally in the battle against exhaustion.

I slipped into my favorite jeans, hastily tugged on a sweater, and grabbed my bag. It was one of those mornings where every minute counted. My father's lessons about punctuality echoed in my mind as I dashed out the door.

The Starbucks was just a short walk from my apartment, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee beckoned me from a block away. I joined the line, mentally rehearsing my order – a venti caramel macchiato with an extra shot of espresso. My secret weapon for surviving morning lectures.

Finally, it was my turn at the counter. I flashed a tired smile at the barista, a young guy with a friendly demeanor. "One venti caramel macchiato with an extra shot, please."

His eyes lit up with a charming grin. "Sure thing. Name?"

"Sophia," I replied, a little distracted as I reached for my wallet.

"Nice name," he said with a wink. "I'm Lucas, by the way. Also a student, but I work here for some extra cash."

I couldn't help but chuckle. "Thanks, Lucas. So, what are you studying?"

As he prepared my coffee, he replied, "Psychology. It's fascinating to delve into the human mind."

I raised an eyebrow. "Psychology, huh? You must have some insights into the art of persuasion."

He chuckled, his fingers deftly finishing up my coffee. "Well, maybe a few tricks up my sleeve."

Lucas handed me the coffee, and I took a cautious sip. Perfection, as always. "Thanks, Lucas. It's great."

He leaned a little closer, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "Sophia, I was wondering if I could get your number. You know, maybe we could grab a coffee together sometime."

I hesitated for a moment, caught off guard by his directness. "Actually, Lucas, I'm seeing someone."

His smile faltered for a split second, but he quickly recovered. "I see. Well, I don't mind. I mean, we could just hang out as friends, right? It doesn't have to be a date or anything."

I appreciated his persistence but wasn't entirely comfortable with the idea. "I'm not sure, Lucas. I'm really busy with school and work."

He leaned on the counter, his charm in full swing. "Come on, Sophia. It's just coffee. No strings attached."

I sighed, feeling torn. He seemed like a nice guy, and I could use a few more friends. "Okay, Lucas, but just coffee."

His face lit up, and he practically beamed. "Great! How about this weekend?"

I relented, giving in to his enthusiasm. "Sure, why not? This Saturday works for me."

Lucas scribbled down his number on a napkin and handed it to me. "Awesome. Shoot me a text, and we'll figure out the details."

I pocketed the napkin, realizing that I'd just agreed to something unexpected.  I left Starbucks with my coffee in hand, I couldn't help but smile. Maybe this coffee date with Lucas wouldn't be so bad after all.

****

I couldn't stop myself from grinning like a Cheshire cat as I spilled the caffeinated beans to Jannette about my encounter with Lucas at Starbucks earlier that morning. The sun had barely stretched its arms when he walked in, all charm and a crooked smile that could melt the Arctic ice.