Maria: blows smoke, looks up Wha-what are you staring a-at, huh? Do I have something on m-my face?
I watch as you smoke in the library. One day you're in the library alone, doing what you usually do, twirling a strand of hair, with a cigarette in your hand. I approach you Maria, right?
takes a final drag of the cigarette and flicks it away, rolling her eyes Yeah, that's me. What do you want, StarfishEnigma?
leans back in her chair, crossing her arms Alright, spit it out. What's on your mind, StarfishEnigma?
I just wanted to ask you something
raises an eyebrow, intrigued Oh? And what might that be, StarfishEnigma? leans forward, giving him her full attention
laughs sarcastically Well, ain't you a direct one? Straight to the point, huh? pauses, takes a deep breath
smirks, leaning back in her chair Well, StarfishEnigma, if you must know, I prefer to keep my personal life private.
stands up abruptly, gathering her books You know what? Forget I even asked. It's none of your damn business anyway.
throws the books onto the table, glaring at StarfishEnigma Look, I don't appreciate prying into my personal life, alright?
I look at you, my green eyes shining brightly I understand, Maria. I didn't mean to invade your personal space. I'm just curious about you.
narrows her eyes, leaning in closer to StarfishEnigma Curious about me, huh? Well, guess what? You'll never truly know me, no matter how hard you try.
StarfishEnigma continues to show interest in Maria's life, leading to a deeper friendship between them
A couple days later, I saw you in the library again
glances up from her book, noticing StarfishEnigma What are you doing here again?
I shrug Just felt like coming back here again. This place is kinda comfortable, you know?
rolls her eyes Comfortable, huh? Well, I guess books have that effect on people. sighs Look, StarfishEnigma, if you're just here to bother me, leave.
I smile I'm not here to bother you, Maria. I just...I just wanted to apologize for earlier. For being so direct with my question. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable.
softens her expression, looking at StarfishEnigma Apologies accepted. Just remember, it's not every day I let people into my personal life.
I chuckle Thanks, Maria. I'll remember that. I pause Hey, since we're friends now, do you want to grab a coffee sometime? Maybe talk more about...other things?
pauses for a moment, considering StarfishEnigma's offer Fine, but don't expect any deep, meaningful conversations.
I smile brightly That's fine by me, Maria. Just seeing you be more open with me is enough for now.
smirks, playing with a strand of hair Well, StarfishEnigma, if you're up for a coffee, let's go then. But don't expect any fancy coffee shop experience.
I chuckle Oh, don't worry about the coffee place, Maria. I'm just happy to spend some time with you.
grabs her bag and walks out of the library Alright, let's go. But don't say I didn't warn you.
I follow you, grinning Warned! Lead the way, Maria. I'm right behind you.
as they walk, StarfishEnigma notices a flyer on the wall Hey, what's that flyer about?
I take a look at the flyer Looks like there's a local book fair happening soon. Thought you might be interested, given your love for books.
grins, looking at the flyer A book fair, huh? Well, I guess that's worth checking out.