Chapter 03: Second Visit and an Unexpected Encounter

**Chapter 3: Second Visit and an Unexpected Encounter**

The following day, Ahmad found himself at the café once more. He scanned the room, but the waitress from yesterday was nowhere in sight. Undeterred, he returned to his familiar seat, anticipation in his heart.

A waitress approached him, her smile warm and professional. "What can I get you?"

Ahmad hesitated, a playful glint in his eye. "No, I haven't decided yet," he replied, offering her a friendly smile. She nodded and left to attend to other customers.

An hour passed, and Ahmad was still seated there, his patience unwavering. Just as he was beginning to lose hope, the one he had been waiting for hurried into the café. She swiftly made her way to the back to get dressed, explaining her tardiness to a concerned colleague.

"You're late," her friend remarked.

Breathless, she replied, "Yes, I know, something held me back at home."

A tray was handed to her, and she asked, "What table?"

"Table 04B," her friend replied.

She headed toward Table 04B, the one behind Ahmad. As she passed his table, time seemed to slow. He could hear nothing but the melodic tap of her boots on the café's wooden floor, and he imagined a chorus of birds serenading her every step.

She gently placed the order on the table, then turned to leave. Ahmad, unable to contain his curiosity, snapped his fingers and raised his hand. "Excuse me," he called out.

She turned, her demeanor polite but professional. "How can I help you, sir?"

He was taken aback by her recognition, his face lit up with a bright smile. "You recognized me?"

"Of course I do," she replied with a grin. "You were rather awkward yesterday."

Ahmad chuckled and rubbed his forehead. "Awkward, huh?" he mused.

She hastened to clarify, "No, I don't mean it in a bad way."

His curiosity piqued, Ahmad quirked an eyebrow. "A good type of awkward, then?"

She giggled and agreed, "Totally."

Their exchange was interrupted by her friend's exasperated shout. "Stop flirting with the customer! I have tons of orders over here!"

She blushed and gave a playful wave. "Oops, I almost forgot." With that, she darted back to work.

Ahmad couldn't help but ponder the word "flirting" as he sipped his coffee. He wasn't sure if it applied to their brief interaction, but he found himself looking forward to more moments at the café, not just for the delightful meals but for the unexpected connections they brought.

As he continued to observe the bustling café, he couldn't shake the feeling that life had taken an intriguing turn, full of promise and surprises.