artiebhatt:
Artie was pretty sure if he inhaled one more speck of silicone dust it was going to solidify the walls of his lungs. There wasn’t any science to back that up, but he had left the realms of science way before he found himself reading his worn copy of Jurassic Park in the busy LA coffee shop; hiding from responsibilities like work and, god forbid, paying bills. The chatter surrounding him had only helped to encase him in his more personal hobbies, book folded in half in one hand while the other blind sketched the dinosaurs he read about in between sips of his overpriced coffee. When the voice obstructed by his laser focus asked to take a seat he was quick to agree with a slight nod. It wasn’t until he finished his chapter that his gaze came to meet the beautiful stranger causing his eyes to widen as he practically choked inhaling sip from his cup. Artie Bhatt, smooth as always.
“Wow,” he mumbled, further making a fool of himself before clearing his throat sheepishly, “sorry. I’m usually a more accommodating host.” Trying to recover with a self deprecating chuckle Artie placed his book down to push his mop of locks out of his face as if that could somehow magically fix his appearance like a shy girl in the movies taking off her glasses. “But,” he continued, finally recovered from the sight of the woman across from him “that seat isn’t rent controlled, so I’m sorry to inform you but the cost is gonna be two coffees. I’ll wave the scone security deposit, but don’t let anyone know I went easy on ya.”
A warm and welcoming smile slowly spread across her full lips. If bribery didn’t work, she wasn’t opposed to using her cuteness to her advantage. Thankfully, it didn’t have to come to that and a chuckle emanated at the hard ‘bargain’ the stranger presented to her. Plopping down onto the seat across from her, she tried to muster up some version of a serious face as if she was pondering his offer. “Well...” Esme mused out loud, tapping her shin with a lone finger, adding to the act.”You drive a hard bargain.” Hazel eyes shift to the left and right for show, as i there were any other options available.
There weren’t -- besides him it was either being stuck next to a baby or some asshole who as screaming into his airpods. “But I appreciate your leinancy-- I’m just a lowly writer trying to make ends.” Pushing a lock of hair behind her ear, her bag was then settled by her feet. “So, you got yourself a deal. Your secret is safe of me.”
