Ruby had been in a conflicted state all morning. She’d tried to reduce the nerves by consuming herself with online shopping but she’d ended up thinking about what the afternoon could hold even more. A date with Thea was the last thing she ever imagined she’d be doing with her weekend but here she was...in her pyjamas on the balcony with a cigarette between her fingers, still wondering what the fuck she should wear. Not that it would take her long to get to the restaurant, she could practically see it from where she was stood.
As she lifted her cigarette to her mouth again, her mind drifted idly back. How many years had it been now since they’d last seen each other? Ruby had done so much since then. Seen so many things. Lived in so many cities. But she was back here and going for lunch with the woman that had instantly won her heart and as easily returned it. But time changed everyone. Including her.
Her boots clicked on the paving slabs as she moved briskly through the Northern Quarter. It wasn’t that she was late, it was just that she rarely did anything slowly. As she approached the restaurant, she slowed and reached into her pocket, withdrawing a packet of cigarettes. She tucked herself into the unused seating area outside the restaurant and raised the lighter to the end of her cigarette. The paper was burning low toward her fingers by the time she looked up again and when she did, her heart dropped. Unmistakably, Thea was walking toward her, and she looked beautiful. Aged but fucking beautiful.
“Fancy seeing you here.” She spoke loudly as she stubbed the cigarette out in the closest ashtray. A few forced steps brought her closer to the other and she couldn’t help but smile reminiscently. “I hope you’re hungry.” @canthelps