That Guy - Flash Fiction


 

Jack arrived at the beer house, ready to indulge in his weekly two beers. He got out of his Jeep, grabbed his journal and latest read, and walked inside the small yet lively place. Several people were seated at the tables with their various choices of beer, and Jack already knew that today was going to be a fantastic day. He sauntered up to the counter to place his order - a lively IPA with hints of lime and hibiscus - then carried his glass to the patio area outside. He sat down at one of the wooden picnic tables, placed his items in rigid order on the table, and glanced around at the other patrons. He allowed himself a small smile, knowing that today, oh yes today, would be the day for him. Today, he would finally get the courage to speak to someone, preferably a woman. He sipped his cold IPA and frowned a little; perhaps he needed some chips as well. Jack stared longingly at the interior of the establishment, knowing that it wouldn't take him long to procure a bag of locally made chips, but decided against it as he suddenly didn't want to leave his seat. He slumped a little in the chair then took another sip of his beer as he opened his book and began to read. Although he could hear the general noise of his surroundings, Jack was soon completely engrossed in his book. He was so engrossed that it took several tries before he looked up to see a woman holding a glass of dark beer as she stood at his table. Her eyes spoke of an unsaid apology, as though her presence was a problem for Jack. Hi, she said, I noticed you're sitting alone. Do you mind if I join you? She held up her beer by way of raising a possible toast, causing Jack to smile. Sure, he replied, I've got plenty of room. The woman grinned as she sat down across from him. Jack placed a bookmark in his book and slid it to the side. Oh sorry, she said, you're reading. No worries, Jack replied as he leaned forward. It was finally happening! he thought as he flashed a smile at her. So, Jack added, what's your name? Katie, she replied, and you? Jack, he said with a satisfied laugh that he hoped didn't sound forced. What do you do, Katie? Oh, I own a small yarn shop nearby, she replied with a small flip of her black hair. You? I'm a lawyer, Jack replied with pride, only to have it deflated when Katie scrunched her mouth in what was surely displeasure. My office is hybrid, Jack added quickly, so I get to enjoy some time at home in peace. Katie relaxed her mouth and Jack wondered if he had turned her completely off from him. She was attractive, seemingly intelligent, and dang it, she was sitting at his table. Jack beamed with pride. Just then, Katie whipped out her phone and began to furiously type. Sorry, she apologized, but I wanted to let my boyfriend know where I am. She typed a little longer and then set her phone on the table. Jack felt himself withering inside yet he kept up a good face as he watched Katie drink her beer. Katie's phone soon beeped with a reply; she stared at the screen and smiled. Well, she said as she rose to her feet and collected her belongings, enjoy your Sunday. Jack raised a hand halfway up as she turned and left without even seeing him do it. Jack lowered his hand and sighed. He sipped his beer and noticed that it was suddenly warm. Of course, Jack thought as he smirked. Of course, it would be warm. 


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