Secondhand Love

I recognized him the moment I stepped into Nicolas’ Antique Shop… Medium build, dark brown hair, looking ridiculously good in a red shirt and jeans. Yep, it was Jaime (the guy who never texted me back after that night. Typical.) I tried to look busy, inspecting some blue leather chairs. Naturally I managed to trip over one, making a huge display for attention. Jaime and Nicolas turned to look my way. I managed to hide behind an old bookshelf, “I’m fine!” I muttered . As I took a deep breath, trying to look casual, I spotted a Magic 8-Ball on a shelf. I picked it up, feeling a bit silly, and whispered, “Should I say hi to Jaime?” ‘Most likely’. Figures. The universe had jokes today. I went upstairs where I spotted Nicolas’ partner working on a piece of furniture, carefully sanding down an old dresser. He waved, snapping me out of my trance. I smiled back, which only reminded me of how much I had been daydreaming about Jaime… who, by then, was making his way to the door. “Jaime, wait!” I called, a little louder than intended, as I started down the staircase. As expected, my legs failed me at the last step and nearly landed on my face. “Aren’t you the guy from the bar?” he asked with a smirk after he caught me “Yeah… the one you didn’t text!” I blurted. Real smooth. He looked at me in surprise. God, do I detect a hint of regret in his face? “I lost my phone that night. Want to go out?” He held up the Magic 8-Ball. “Let’s see.” grinning at Jaime As he shook it, I couldn’t help but notice his biceps. Then, the answer appeared. ‘Without a doubt’