Chance Encounter - Jerry Cole Page 0,2

here for. Great coffee as well.” I returned the smile, wondering if he was flirting or just being friendly. “How did you two enjoy the show?”

“It was good. I took my grandma, but I enjoyed myself. I did some theater in school, so I have a taste for it.” He looked ahead, and I leaned over to see a line of ten people.

“Are you visiting her?” I needed to know if he lived here in Washington.

“I live here. I graduated a couple of years ago and stayed for Gram. She’s been lonely since her husband died three years ago. I have the apartment next door to her.” He looked at me with curious eyes. “Does that make me some kind of dork or something?”

“No, it means you care about her. I wouldn’t be surprised if you lived there since it’s expensive to live in this area. What was your major? What do you do for work?” I asked, making him smile.

“It was a vague one in communications. I work as an assistant for a few podcasts. That way, I can stay close to home. Your job is at the theater?” He looked interested, and I felt butterflies in my stomach.

“Yes, but I don’t always usher. I kind of fill in where I’m needed. I’ve worked there since high school. I love it, and it pays the bills.” I smiled, and he nodded.

“Do you live by yourself?” This could be a crucial question.

“I do. I was at my best friend’s place last night, and she always sends me down for these damn eclairs.” I rolled my eyes, and he raised a brow. That meant he wanted to know more. “She’s been like a sister to me since we were in high school.”

“That’s great.” He moved forward with the line, and I followed, checking out his ass. My phone beeped, and I pulled it from my pocket with a smirk.

Chocolate eclairs?

I know why you sent me down here. I’ll be there once I finally reach the register.

“That’s the friend in question. She asks me to get coffee, but I know it’s for pastry. She works at a coffee stand and has one of the best machines up there to make her own.” I smiled and understanding crossed his face.

“Is she the girl you were standing near last night? Bright red hair?” He asked, and I nodded in surprise.

“That’s Becca,” I replied, realizing that I didn’t introduce myself. This guy made me forget everything. “I’m Hayden, by the way.”

“I saw that on the tag last night. I’m Gray.” We shook hands as I held back the scream that wanted to fill the shop. He took note of a lot last night, making me feel like he could be interested.

We talked the entire time we were in line. He waited for me to order so we could leave together, and I couldn’t wait to tell Becca what happened.

“I have to get this home, but could I have your number?” Gray asked as I smiled.

“Of course. Want me to put it into your phone?” I asked, and he smiled as he handed it to me. There was no lock on it, and I wondered if he was one of the guys that were open to those close to him. I had a few ex-boyfriends that were not like that. I entered my number and name, even sending myself a message, so I’d have his number. “All set.”

“Great. I’ll call.” His eyes locked with mine for a moment, and he grinned. “It was great meeting you, Hayden.”

“It was a pleasure meeting you. I look forward to hearing from you.” He headed to the right, making me wonder how close he lived as he kept walking. I turned left to take the few steps to Becca’s place, seeing her on the couch as I walked in.

“That took forever,” she grumbled as I handed her the bag and a coffee.

“They’re popular on the weekends. During the week, for that matter, have you ever walked down there when Mari wasn’t here?” I asked, making her laugh.

“I know about the eclairs, don’t I?” Becca looked sad for a moment, and I knew she was missing Mari. Ever since they met at a festival in Seattle, that was it for both of them.

“So, guess what?” I asked, and she glanced at me as I joined her on the couch. “The theater guy was in line in front of me.”

“Are you serious?” She asked with wide eyes.

“I am. I crashed right into