A Hero Adrift - Chapter 1 Page 4

Aaron nodded, feeling a pang of sadness as she began to gather her things. He wished they could stay there all day, lost in each other's company. But he knew she had other obligations and responsibilities. He watched as she stood up and slid her backpack onto her shoulders. She leaned over and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, leaving behind the sweet scent of her perfume. "Text me later, okay?" she said, waving goodbye, before heading out of the coffee shop. Aaron watched her go, feeling a sense of longing in his heart. He knew they would see each other again soon, but it never seemed like it was enough. As he sat alone in the coffee shop, he couldn't help but wonder what the future held for them.

Taking a deep breath, Aaron took his time to finish his coffee and then cleared the tray before walking up to the counter to pay. As he fumbled with his wallet, the girl at the counter looked up at him and said, "You know, I've been admiring your hair. The dreads are really cool!" Aaron looked down and awkwardly touch his hair surprised but pleased at the unexpected compliment. "Thanks," he said, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. As he took his change and turned to leave, he couldn't help feeling a little better about the day ahead.

As he was about to walk away from the counter, there was a sudden loud explosion that shook the entire cafe and sent everyone tumbling to the ground. Glasses shattered and dishes crashed to the floor, sending a cacophony of sound echoing through the small space. His heart pounded in his chest as he tried to process what was happening. He quickly scanned the room, making sure everyone was okay. The girl at the counter was shaking but appeared unharmed, and the other customers were stirring on the ground, dazed but alive. The smell of smoke and burning filled the air, and Aaron realized that this wasn't just any explosion - something terrible was happening in the city. He had to act fast.