Chapter 3 3

Nina's POV

Serendipity is known by many names: synchronicity, fate, coincidence, fortuity.

It's the idea that when you move in the direction you're supposed to be going and take specific actions, the universe has a way of stepping in and guiding you.

Serendipity is when action entwines with faith, and together, both seem to swirl along to the beautiful symphonies.

Are you my serendipity?

Leaning against the kitchen counter, I debated whether I should go back to the park or find a new one.

Yes, an overly attractive man asked me out two days ago, and I said no. Yes, he made a lot of suggestive comments, and I let him. But why do I feel bad? It's not like I accepted his invitation and cheated on my boyfriend. It's not like he owns the park. What are the chances I'll see him again?

I couldn't stop my endless train of thoughts. I couldn't stop thinking about him.

I glance at the clock, 3:00 p.m. Luck was on my side today. My professor, or, as I liked to call him, the devil ended class early.

If I go to the park early, I won't see him. Perfect. Sounds like a plan.

Grabbing my keys and earphones, I drove my crappy, beat-up car to the park. It still runs, so why not?

On the way, my eyes caught sight of a small coffee shop. I'd driven past it countless times but never went in.

Today, I pulled over.

Grabbing my purse, I walked toward the small joint.

Inside, I was greeted by the warmth of a burning fireplace, the scent of coffee beans, and several green plants. Bookshelves lined the walls. Instantly, I liked this place. I would be back.

A young lady behind the counter smiled. "Hello, what can I get for you?"

"A latte with whipped cream, please." I dug into my black hole of a purse. I don't know why I carry around such a large bag when I never use anything in it. But I know that the day I decide not to, I'll need it.

"Coming right up."

After several brutal minutes of searching and an awkward stare from the cashier, I finally found a five-dollar bill. Releasing a breath of relief, I paid and took a seat by the window.

Rain gently hit the glass as people frantically scattered to get indoors. I love the rain; it's soothing. It makes me want to bundle up in a giant fluffy blanket by the fire with hot cocoa.

I was lost in thought when a light tap on my shoulder pulled me back. I pulled out an earphone.

"Excuse me. Is this seat taken?" An overwhelmingly familiar deep voice asked.

The temperature spiked, breaking the thermometer-it was suffocatingly hot.

I swallowed and slowly turned my head.

Him.

I shook my head. "No."

Take the seat and go away. Take it and go away.

He gave me a simple, heart-throbbing smile and sat down.

Okay, not what I expected.

It seemed like this man didn't take no for an answer. And let's be real, he was no boy. He was a man.

He wore a white T-shirt that clung to his biceps and black sweats. Water dripped down his sharp, stubbled jaw to his broad chest. My gaze followed the drop's path.

I swallowed loudly.

His lips were chapped from the cold air, and when I finally met his gaze, piercing icy blues he was already staring at me.

My eyes snapped down to the table.

After a few awkward minutes, the barista delivered our drinks.

I smiled involuntarily when I saw the heart drawn into my latte's foam. I love little coffee art.

My eyes trailed from my cup to his.

"Black?" I accidentally blurted.

He lifted a brow and nodded. "Yup. My favorite."

I scrunched my nose. "Isn't it bitter?"

He took a sip. "Certainly is."

"Ever try it with a teaspoon of almond milk?" I asked.

"No."

"Try it. Gives a bit of a sweet kick."

He leaned forward. "How sweet?"

"Not too sweet. Just enough to get you addicted." I rested my chin on my palm.

One side of his lips tilted upward-almost a smile. "Fascinating."

He mirrored my posture, leaning closer. "And if I don't get addicted?"

I shrugged. "Return to black coffee."

He leaned back, crossed his arms, and stretched out his long legs. "Don't you get bored?" he asked, tilting his head.

"Of?"

"Drinking the same old thing. Try something new. Step out of your boundaries."

I smirked. "I think I'll try something new," he said suggestively.

Before I knew it, we were talking like old friends, laughing, teasing, sharing stories.

"Yeah, I climbed out of the window to grab my dog. My adorable but foolish dog. When I tried to go back inside, the security system denied my passcode. I was locked out for five hours. In my boxers."

I covered my mouth, trying to contain my laughter. "Why didn't you call someone?"

"Left my phone inside. Then I tried to break in. Next thing I knew, I was surrounded by ten cop cars."

I erupted in laughter. But when I glanced at my phone, I frowned. 9:26 p.m.

Looking down, I realized we had six empty coffee cups between us.

Great. No more coffee for the rest of the week.

Scanning the shop, I noticed only us and a lone worker at the counter, glued to his phone.

I stood up. "Sorry, but it's getting late. I have to go."

He followed suit, scratching his neck. "Wait. I wanted to apologize for the other day. I didn't know you had a boyfriend. I hope you don't feel weird."

I smiled. "Not weird at all." Truthfully, it boosted my confidence. Not everyone gets hit on by a supermodel.

He laughed lightly. "Want to grab coffee or lunch sometime? Just as friends."

I hesitated.

"I don't have any hidden intentions. I just enjoy talking to you, Nina." He ran a hand through his messy hair, smiling slightly, showing off a single deep dimple.

I reached for my phone, knocking over my coffee, right onto his lap.

"Oh my God! I'm so sorry!" I grabbed napkins and frantically dabbed his pants.

"Nina, it's okay." He grabbed my wrist, trying to stop me, but I kept cleaning.

"Nina. I don't think this is a good idea."

"What isn't?"

He looked toward the worker. I followed his gaze.

The guy behind the counter was staring. Jaw dropped.

Looking back at my hands, I realized where I was patting.

Oh.

My.

God.

I yanked my hands away. "I wasn't, ! I'm not! I'M NOT A PERVERT!"

Ruffled laughter escaped him. "I know. But that's not what others think."

My cheeks burned.

He grinned. "How about instead of coffee, you buy me a sandwich? As payment for ruining my clothes?"

I twisted my lips, debating...